In a recent development, the Springboks have announced their starting lineup for the much-anticipated Rugby World Cup opener against Scotland, slated to take place this Sunday. The lineup sees Kurt-Lee Arendse stepping in to fill the void left by Canan Moodie, who is sidelined due to an injury. This adjustment is one of the four changes made to the initial lineup.
A Blend of Experience and New Pairings
Jacques Nienaber, the man at the helm of the Springboks, named the matchday squad in Marseille, revealing a few alterations from the team that previously secured a resounding victory over New Zealand at Twickenham.
A significant milestone will be reached by scrumhalf Faf de Klerk, who is set to play in his 50th test match, a testament to his enduring presence and performance in the team. He is among the 11 players retaining their starting positions from the triumphant clash against the All Blacks.
In the starting pack, a solitary change has been noted, with Jasper Wiese replacing Duane Vermeulen at No 8, relegating Vermeulen to the bench. This strategic move is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the team’s formation.
Adjustments in the Backline
The backline witnesses a series of changes, with a new midfield pairing of Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel. Additionally, Cheslin Kolbe is making a comeback as a left wing, taking over from Makazole Mapimpi.
Unfortunately, utility back Moodie and lock Jean Kleyn were ruled out from the selection owing to hamstring and knee issues, respectively. Nienaber remarked on this, stating,
It’s always a challenge to maintain a balanced team dynamics with injuries, but we have faith in the selected squad.
Bench Strength and Strategy
The bench showcases a 6-2 split, featuring Bongi Mbonambi as the hooker, accompanied by Ox Nche and Trevor Nyakane as props. The lock position is secured by RG Snyman, while Marco van Staden and Vermeulen are named as the impact forwards. The backline cover is provided by Grant Williams and a fit-again Willie le Roux.
The full lineup is as follows:
Springboks – 15 Damian Willemse, 14 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 13 Jesse Kriel, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Cheslin Kolbe, 10 Manie Libbok, 9 Faf de Klerk, 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 Siya Kolisi (c), 5 Franco Mostert, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Frans Malherbe, 2 Malcolm Marx, 1 Steven Kitshoff.
Subs – 16 Bongi Mbonambi, 17 Ox Nche, 18 Trevor Nyakane, 19 RG Snyman, 20 Marco van Staden, 21 Duane Vermeulen, 22 Grant Williams, 23 Willie le Roux.
As the Springboks gear up for the opener, the newly announced lineup reflects a blend of experience and fresh pairings, aiming to bring a dynamic performance against Scotland. The team and their supporters await Sunday with bated breath, eager to see how these strategies unfold on the rugby field.
