Rassie Erasmus hopes the changes he’s made to his match squad – especially those in the backline – will fire the Springboks to victory over the All Blacks in Wellington on Saturday.
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu gets the nod at flyhalf ahead of Handre Pollard after a lively performance in the final quarter of the loss at Eden Park. He’ll be partnered by Eden Park try-scorer Cobus Reinach at scrumhalf.
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A new-look midfield combination of Damian Willemse and Canan Moodie replace Damian de Allende and captain Jesse Kriel, while Ethan Hooker gets his first Test start in only his third Test on the left wing.
Cheslin Kolbe is the only survivor from last week’s starting backline, with Aphelele Fassi returning at fullback.
“I do think the guys who came on in the second half really brought great energy and showed some real fight,” said Erasmus. “It changed my mind to think maybe get some energetic guys onto the field who’ve never played here before.
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“I think we’re still No 2 in the world, so we win this game, we’re back in the Rugby Championship mix and we’re still alright in the world rankings.
“Obviously some players – like some coaches including myself – disappointed, but I don’t think it’s through a lack of trying.”
Up front, Kolisi reclaims the No 6 jersey, while No 8 Jasper Wiese returns to the field for the first time since facing Italy in July after serving his four-match suspension.
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Lood de Jager will pack down next to Ruan Nortje in the second row, while Erasmus stuck with the same front row of Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx and Thomas du Toit.
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
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