Record Test for Etzebeth while Boks unleash new halfback combination against Pumas

THIS Saturday in Nelspruit, Eben Etzebeth will make history as the most capped Springbok ever when he takes the field at lock against Argentina. His milestone will come during a crucial, title-deciding match in the Castle Lager Rugby Championship at Mbombela Stadium.

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has shuffled his squad, promoting Etzebeth, Jaden Hendrikse (scrumhalf), and Manie Libbok (flyhalf) from the bench. This game marks the first time Hendrikse and Libbok will be paired as the starting halfbacks, a dynamic selection for the Boks’ pivotal match against Los Pumas.

The Springboks come off a tight 29-28 loss to Argentina in Santiago del Estero last weekend. In response, Erasmus has made nine changes, including a positional switch, restoring key players. Six double Rugby World Cup winners – Bongi Mbonambi (hooker), Frans Malherbe (prop), Pieter-Steph du Toit (flanker), Cheslin Kolbe (wing), Damian de Allende (centre), and Siya Kolisi (flanker) – return to the starting line-up.

Kolisi resumes captaincy after sitting out last week’s match.

The starting pack mirrors the one that secured an 18-12 win over New Zealand in Cape Town, highlighting Erasmus' focus on continuity and experience. The coach has also reverted to a five-three forward-back split on the bench, prioritising forward firepower.

At the forefront is Etzebeth, achieving a remarkable career milestone. Erasmus was full of praise for the Bok stalwart: “Eben’s achievement is massive, and we’re all incredibly proud. We want to make this a special and memorable occasion for him.”

Manie Libbok’s inclusion at flyhalf is particularly notable, as Erasmus emphasised the young player’s energy and play-making ability:

“Manie’s general play is fantastic. He brings a lot of energy and dictates the play well. We fully back him to do the job for us at flyhalf.”

Jaden Hendrikse, starting at scrumhalf, adds speed and precision to the mix, complementing Libbok's tactical approach.

South Africa’s task is clear: one point will secure their first full Castle Lager Rugby Championship title since 2009. The Boks could still claim the title even if they lose, provided Argentina does not win with a bonus point. However, should Los Pumas pull off an upset and deny the Boks any points, the title will go to Argentina.

Erasmus acknowledged the high stakes but reiterated his goal of finishing the competition on a high note.

“We know it won’t be easy. Argentina believes they can win, and they’ve proven it by defeating New Zealand and Australia. But we’re prepared for a tough, 80-minute battle,” the Bok coach said.

The Springbok forward pack will see Ox Nche, Malherbe, and Mbonambi in the front row, with Etzebeth pairing Ruan Nortje at lock. Kolisi, Du Toit, and Jasper Wiese complete a physically imposing, loose trio.

Meanwhile, the backline is bolstered by the experienced centre pairing of De Allende and Jesse Kriel, with Aphelele Fassi starting at fullback alongside wings Kurt-Lee Arendse and Kolbe.

The bench, featuring the likes of Cobus Reinach, Handré Pollard, and Lukhanyo Am, is set to offer a wealth of experience for the Springboks.

As the Boks prepare for a possible championship victory, Erasmus noted the similarities between South Africa and Argentina in their rugby journeys.

“Both teams have had to overcome great challenges,” Erasmus said. “The Pumas will come out guns blazing; they have nothing to lose, and this is their first shot at the trophy. We’re preparing for a proper final.”

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown in Nelspruit, with the Springboks on the brink of securing glory and making history on multiple fronts.

Springbok Squad to Face Argentina:

Forwards: 1. Ox Nche, 2. Bongi Mbonambi, 3. Frans Malherbe, 4. Eben Etzebeth, 5. Ruan Nortje, 6. Siya Kolisi (captain), 7. Pieter-Steph du Toit, 8. Jasper Wiese. Backline: 9. Jaden Hendrikse, 10. Manie Libbok, 11. Cheslin Kolbe, 12. Damian de Allende, 13. Jesse Kriel, 14. Kurt-Lee Arendse, 15. Aphelele Fassi. Replacements: 16. Malcolm Marx, 17. Gerhard Steenekamp, 18. Vincent Koch, 19. Elrigh Louw, 20. Kwagga Smith, 21. Cobus Reinach, 22. Handre Pollard, 23. Lukhanyo Am.