The South African national rugby team, also known as the Springboks, initiated their title defense at the 2023 Rugby World Cup on a high note, defeating Scotland 18-3 in their opening match in Marseille. The team, under the stewardship of Jacques Nienaber, faces a daunting challenge ahead, having been placed in a group often referred to as the ‘Group of Death’, alongside Scotland, Ireland, Romania, and Tonga. Despite the ominous label, the three-time world champions are looking to maintain their momentum after a notable victory over the All Blacks in a pre-tournament warm-up.
Fixture Details
Pool B Matches
South Africa’s matches in Pool B are as follows:
- Sunday, September 10: South Africa 18, Scotland 3
- Sunday, September 17: South Africa vs. Romania, Stade de Bordeaux, Bordeaux – 2pm
- Saturday, September 23: South Africa vs. Ireland, Stade de France, Saint-Denis – 8pm
- Sunday, October 1: South Africa vs. Tonga, Stade de Marseille – 8pm
Beyond the Group Stage
Should the Springboks advance, potential quarter-final matches could take place on:
- Saturday, October 14: Winner of Pool B vs. Runner-up of Pool A, Stade de France – 8pm
- Sunday, October 15: Winner of Pool 4 vs. Runner-up of Pool B, Stade de France – 8pm
And potential semi-final dates are:
- Friday, October 20: Winner of QF 1 vs. Winner of QF 2, Stade de France – 8pm
- Saturday, October 21: Winner of QF 3 vs. Winner of QF 4, Stade de France – 8pm
The tournament concludes with the final match slated for Saturday, October 28 at the Stade de France, kicking off at 8pm.
Broadcast Information
In the UK, ITV holds exclusive broadcast rights for the Rugby World Cup, with all South African matches airing on ITV1. For radio listeners, BBC will provide commentary across Radio 5 Live, 5 Sports Extra, and the BBC Sounds service. Regional coverage will also be available.
South African fans can catch the action live on SuperSport.
Team Roster
Forwards
Steven Kitshoff, Vincent Koch, Frans Malherbe, Ox Nche, Trevor Nyakane, Bongi Mbonambi, Malcolm Marx, Eben Etzebeth, Jean Kleyn, Marvin Orie, RG Snyman, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Siya Kolisi (captain), Kwagga Smith, Marco van Staden, Duane Vermeulen, Jasper Wiese, Deon Fourie, Franco Mostert.
Backs
Faf de Klerk, Jaden Hendrikse, Cobus Reinach, Grant Williams, Manie Libbok, Damian Willemse, Damian de Allende, Andre Esterhuizen, Jesse Kriel, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Cheslin Kolbe, Willie le Roux, Makazole Mapimpi, Canan Moodie.
The Odds
As for the favorites to win the tournament, here are some of the odds provided by bookmakers:
- New Zealand: 11/4
- France: 10/3
- South Africa: 10/3
- Ireland: 9/2
- Australia: 14/1
- England: 14/1
- Argentina: 22/1
- Wales: 33/1
- Scotland: 33/1
These odds offer a glimpse into the competitive landscape of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, though they are subject to change as the tournament progresses.
Whether the Springboks will successfully defend their title remains to be seen, but they’ve started on a promising note. Amid the complex dynamics of the ‘Group of Death’ and the heightened expectations that come with being the reigning champions, South Africa’s path through the tournament will undoubtedly be one to watch.
