South Africa have unveiled a significantly revamped squad for Saturday’s Rugby Championship clash against Argentina, with head coach Rassie Erasmus recalling several experienced internationals returning from injury.
Captain Siya Kolisi headlines the returning group alongside Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Morne van den Berg, as the Springboks prepare for a challenging encounter in Buenos Aires.
The fixture marks an important step for several senior players making their first Test appearances of 2026 after lengthy spells on the sidelines.
Major Changes After Dominant Wales Victory
Erasmus has made 13 changes to the team that comfortably defeated Wales 43-0 in Durban in the Springboks’ previous Test.
Only fullback Aphelele Fassi and scrumhalf Cobus Reinach retain their places in the starting XV from that victory, while five members of the Wales squad have been shifted to the replacements bench.
The changes reflect South Africa’s strategy of rotating players while rebuilding combinations ahead of a demanding international schedule.
Experienced Forward Pack Returns
The Springboks will field an entirely new pack against Los Pumas, blending proven leaders with powerful ball carriers.
Boan Venter, Johan Grobbelaar and Thomas du Toit form the front row, while veteran lock pairing Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager reunite in the second row.
In the loose trio, Kolisi resumes captaincy alongside Elrigh Louw and rising star Cameron Hanekom, creating a balanced combination of experience and athleticism.
Exciting Backline Combines Youth and Experience
Behind the scrum, Cobus Reinach partners Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu at halfback as the young playmaker returns from injury.
Andre Esterhuizen slots into midfield alongside Canan Moodie, while Ethan Hooker and Edwill van der Merwe occupy the wings with Fassi continuing at fullback.
The selection gives several emerging players an opportunity to perform alongside established internationals.
Erasmus Expects Fierce Test in Buenos Aires
Erasmus believes the trip to Argentina offers the perfect opportunity for returning players to regain match sharpness against one of world rugby’s toughest opponents.
The Springbok coach praised the efforts of injured players who worked hard to return to fitness and said facing the Pumas would provide the ideal measure of their readiness for the remainder of the season.
He also stressed that every player selected had earned their opportunity after impressing during recent training camps and previous Test matches.
Respect for Argentina’s Fighting Spirit
While South Africa enter the match with a strong historical record against Argentina, Erasmus warned against underestimating Felipe Contepomi’s side.
He described the Pumas as a team whose passion, resilience and determination closely resemble the qualities traditionally associated with South African rugby.
The coach also reminded his players that Argentina have beaten the Springboks twice on home soil in recent years and will be eager to produce another memorable performance in front of their supporters.
Blend of Veterans and Rising Talent
Erasmus expressed confidence in the balance of his squad, highlighting the combination of Rugby World Cup winners and promising young players eager to establish themselves at international level.
According to the coach, the team has adapted well to conditions in Argentina and displayed impressive intensity during training, giving the coaching staff confidence ahead of kickoff.
He added that success would depend on accurate execution, disciplined play and taking scoring opportunities against a well-organised Argentine side with dangerous backs and a physical forward pack.
Springboks Aim to Extend Strong Record
Although South Africa boast an impressive overall record against Argentina, recent meetings have shown the growing competitiveness between the two nations.
The Springboks have won 35 of their 40 previous Tests against Los Pumas and remain unbeaten in Buenos Aires since 1993.
However, their most recent visit to Argentina ended in a narrow 29-28 defeat in Santiago del Estero in 2024.
Saturday’s encounter at Estadio José Amalfitani presents South Africa with an opportunity to continue their strong rivalry while welcoming several influential players back into the international arena.
Springbok Starting XV to Face Argentina
15: Aphelele Fassi
14: Edwill van der Merwe
13: Canan Moodie
12: Andre Esterhuizen
11: Ethan Hooker
10: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
9: Cobus Reinach
8: Cameron Hanekom
7: Elrigh Louw
6: Siya Kolisi (captain)
5: Lood de Jager
4: Eben Etzebeth
3: Thomas du Toit
2: Johan Grobbelaar
1: Boan Venter
Replacements: Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Gerhard Steenekamp, Zachary Porthen, Ben-Jason Dixon, Cobus Wiese, Marco van Staden, Morne van den Berg and Handré Pollard.
