Springboks Forced Into Late Change As Willie le Roux Ruled Out Of Wallabies Clash

The Springboks have been dealt a blow ahead of their Rugby Championship Test against Australia in Cape Town this weekend.

Veteran fullback Willie le Roux has been forced to withdraw from the squad after sustaining an injury during training this week. Despite efforts to recover in time, the 34-year-old was unable to prove his fitness.

Le Roux, who last featured in his milestone 100th Test against Italy in Gqeberha, was one of several experienced players recalled to the side following the team’s disappointing 38-22 defeat to the Wallabies at Ellis Park.

Aphelele Fassi Steps Into Starting Line-Up

With Le Roux unavailable, Aphelele Fassi will slot into the starting XV at fullback. The 25-year-old Sharks star has been in strong form and now has the opportunity to make a statement on the international stage in front of the Cape Town faithful.

This change is one of ten adjustments made by the Springbok coaching staff as they look to bounce back and restore confidence in the squad after their recent setback.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Siya Kolisi Reacts As Springboks Collapse Against Wallabies After 22–0 Lead

The highly anticipated clash against the Wallabies will take place at DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Saturday afternoon. Kick-off is scheduled for 17:10 (SA time), with fans eager to see how the Boks respond to the challenge.

The fixture promises intensity as both teams fight for momentum in the Rugby Championship, with South Africa aiming to make their home-ground advantage count for them.

Updated Springbok team to face Australia in Cape Town:

15 Aphelele Fassi
14 Canan Moodie
13 Jesse Kriel (captain)
12 Damian de Allende
11 Cheslin Kolbe
10 Handre Pollard
9 Grant Williams
8 Jean-Luc du Preez
7 Franco Mostert
6 Marco van Staden
5 Ruan Nortje
4 RG Snyman
3 Thomas du Toit
2 Malcolm Marx
1 Ox Nche

Replacements:

16 Marnus van der Merwe
17 Boan Venter
18 Wilco Louw
19 Eben Etzebeth
20 Lood de Jager
21 Kwagga Smith
22 Cobus Reinach
23 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu

---

For More Sports News, Follow SurgeZirc SA On Facebook,  X and Instagram