# Springboks lose high-scoring Perth Test to Wallabies

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/springboks-squad-changes-for-wallabies-test
> Updated: 2026-09-29T03:24:17.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 3.

Following the departure of Pieter-Steph du Toit and Damian de Allende to be with their families, Rassie Erasmus implemented 13 changes to the Springboks starting line-up for the Test match against the Wallabies in Perth. The revamped squad, led by captain André Esterhuizen, saw the return of fly-half Handré Pollard and the inclusion of scrum-half Herschel Jantjies. Only Eben Etzebeth, reaching 147 Test caps, and Ethan Hooker retained their positions from the previous match against New Zealand.

In a high-scoring encounter at Optus Stadium, the Springboks suffered a 42-38 defeat to Australia. The loss drew criticism from former captain Victor Matfield, who questioned the team’s tactical decisions. Matfield specifically noted that South Africa lost the aerial battle, expressing confusion over the decision to repeatedly kick toward Joseph-Aukuso Sua’alii, who was difficult to contain.

Despite the defeat, flanker Paul de Villiers stated the result would serve as motivation for the upcoming Nations Championship in November. De Villiers emphasized that the team gained valuable experience regarding errors and penalty concessions, viewing the Australian tour as essential preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-29: Springboks suffer 42-38 defeat to Australia in Perth

The Springboks lost 42-38 to Australia in Perth. Former captain Victor Matfield criticized the team's aerial tactics, while flanker Paul de Villiers called the defeat a valuable learning experience.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/wallabies-defeat-springboks-42-38-in-perth-thriller

### 2026-09-24: Springboks face overhauled Wallabies side in Perth Test

The Springboks face Australia in Perth with 13 changes to their starting lineup, featuring André Esterhuizen as captain and the return of Handré Pollard.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/springboks-announce-13-changes-for-wallabies-test

### 2026-09-19: Springboks release two key players ahead of Wallabies Test

Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has released Pieter-Steph du Toit and Damian de Allende from the squad to return home before the team faces the Wallabies in Perth on September 27.

7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/springboks-release-two-key-players-ahead-of-wallabies-test

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Cite as: Springboks lose high-scoring Perth Test to Wallabies. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/springboks-squad-changes-for-wallabies-test