As the crowd filled DHL Stadium in Cape Town, the anticipation was palpable.
Fans eagerly awaited the Springboks’ clash with the All Blacks, but before the game even began, the national anthem set the tone for an unforgettable match.
Cape Town truly delivered a stunning rendition, adding to the atmosphere of excitement.
Springboks Prepare for Battle
On Saturday, two fresh faces returned to the Springbok squad since the 2023 Rugby World Cup: Canan Moodie on the wing and Jaden Hendrikse as scrumhalf.
Joining them in the lineup were two seasoned players, Willie le Roux and Lukhanyo Am, both veterans of the RWC.
The Springboks were ready to take on New Zealand in the Castle Lager Rugby Championship, and the excitement was building.
Changes in the Starting Lineup
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus made several changes to the team that had recently secured a thrilling 31-27 victory over the All Blacks in Johannesburg.
The starting XV saw seven changes, including two positional adjustments.
Among the notable shifts, Grant Williams earned his first start of the season, partnering with Handre Pollard, who moved up from the bench.
Eben Etzebeth also returned to the starting lineup, while Le Roux and Moodie jumped straight into the action.
Siya Kolisi Cleared for Action
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, who took a tough hit to the cheek in the previous match, completed all training sessions and was cleared to play.
His return was eagerly anticipated as he joined a powerful loose trio alongside Jasper Wiese and Pieter-Steph du Toit.
Du Toit, who switched from lock to flanker, added extra strength to the lineup.
New Lock Combination and Tactical Adjustments
Etzebeth paired up with Ruan Nortje in the second row, a combination that added grit to the engine room.
Du Toit’s inclusion in the loose trio and Le Roux’s position at fullback meant that Ben-Jason Dixon and Aphelele Fassi would sit out this match, along with Cobus Reinach.
Meanwhile, Moodie stepped in for Kurt-Lee Arendse, who was sidelined due to a concussion, and Cheslin Kolbe shifted from the right wing to the left.
Bench Strategy and Expectations
The Springboks reverted to a traditional five-three split on the bench, with Am, Hendrikse, and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu among the back replacements.
Coach Erasmus made it clear that he expected New Zealand to come back stronger than ever after their narrow loss last week.
Rassie Erasmus’ Thoughts on the Match
“This match is going to be massive,” Erasmus stated, acknowledging the high stakes.
He emphasized that New Zealand, a world-class team, would be hungry for redemption after leading in the second half of the previous game.
With the Freedom Cup on the line and the potential to boost their Castle Lager Rugby Championship standings, the All Blacks were expected to give it their all.
A Challenging Encounter Ahead
Erasmus praised New Zealand’s speed, X-factor players, and their ability to close out games under pressure.
The Springboks knew they were in for a tough battle, but with a strong team effort, they aimed to secure another victory against their fierce rivals.
What Lies Ahead?
As the match loomed, anticipation continued to build.
Both teams were prepared for what promised to be an epic encounter, and fans eagerly awaited the outcome of this thrilling showdown.