Springboks Restore Full-Strength Line-Up For Colossal Test Against Ireland In Dublin

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has restored a near full-strength Springbok side as they prepare for what he calls a “colossal challenge” against Ireland in Saturday’s Autumn Series Test. The Boks are chasing their first victory in Dublin in 12 years.

The 53-year-old reinstated most of the players who missed last weekend’s 32-14 win over Italy, a result secured – like the triumph over France the week before – despite South Africa being reduced to 14 men for a significant chunk of the match.

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Only two changes were made to the matchday squad that beat France. Ruan Nortje steps up from the bench to replace suspended lock Lood de Jager, with Kwagga Smith returning to the replacements.

In the backline, Canan Moodie moves from centre to wing to cover for Kurt-Lee Arendse, who has returned home after suffering a concussion.

Erasmus Warns of ‘Massive Effort’ Needed to Beat Ireland

“Ireland have been among the top-ranked teams in the last few years, and they are a force to be reckoned with at home,” said Erasmus.

“They have a good balance of experienced and exciting young players in their squad, and they pose threats up-front and with their talented backs, so it’s going to require a massive effort to beat them.

“This group of players have never won a match in Ireland before, so we know how tough it’s going to be to win here, and that will certainly motivate us.

“It will take a colossal effort, but we are excited about the challenge, and we know that we have to be razor sharp in all departments to get the desired result.”

Springboks Matchday Squad (15–1)

Damian Willemse; Canan Moodie, Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Cheslin Kolbe; Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Cobus Reinach; Jasper Wiese, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Siya Kolisi (capt); Ruan Nortje, Eben Etzebeth; Thomas du Toit, Malcolm Marx, Boan Venter

Replacements: Johan Grobbelaar, Gerhard Steenekamp, Wilco Louw, RG Snyman, Kwagga Smith, Andre Esterhuizen, Grant Williams, Manie Libbok

Coach: Rassie Erasmus (RSA)

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