The stage is set for one of rugby’s fiercest rivalries to play out once again — this time at the All Blacks’ fortress, Eden Park, in Auckland.
On Saturday, the Springboks will attempt to break an 88-year drought at the stadium and extend their winning streak against New Zealand to five Tests in a row.
Rassie Erasmus has kept faith with his trusted combinations but made a handful of adjustments for this crucial Rugby Championship clash.
Familiar Faces with a Few Tweaks
Only four changes have been made to the team that beat the Wallabies in Cape Town.
Eben Etzebeth, South Africa’s most capped player, returns to the engine room for his 136th Test alongside Ruan Nortje.
Siya Kolisi shakes off a niggle to slot in at No. 8 for just the second time in his career, while Pieter-Steph du Toit reclaims his spot on the flank.
The backline remains largely untouched, with Willie le Roux back at fullback for his 101st Test after missing the Wallabies match through injury. Jesse Kriel once again captains the side.
Bench Adjustments
Erasmus has also freshened up the replacements, bringing in Jan-Hendrik Wessels at hooker, Kwagga Smith to cover loose forward, and Ethan Hooker for only his second Test appearance.
In total, 17 of the players who featured in Cape Town have been retained.
“We picked the best possible team for this game,” Erasmus explained.
“It’s going to be a completely different challenge playing the All Blacks in New Zealand, especially at Eden Park where they have such an incredible record.”
Records and Rivalry
The history between these two sides is unmatched, and Saturday’s game is layered with significance.
The Boks haven’t beaten the All Blacks at Eden Park since 1937, and the Freedom Cup is also on the line.
Erasmus acknowledged the weight of the occasion: “The rivalry speaks for itself, and the stakes are huge.
There are records on the line for both teams, so it will be a proper grind. Both sides will throw everything at it.”
Adding to the occasion, All Blacks star Ardie Savea will run out for his 100th Test — a milestone Erasmus was quick to praise, calling it one of the most special achievements in rugby.
Kriel Holds the Captaincy
While Kolisi has returned, Erasmus confirmed that Jesse Kriel would continue leading the team.
“Siya was touch and go earlier in the week, and Jesse had already been named captain.
He’s earned this opportunity — he communicates well, leads by example, and it will be special for him to captain against the All Blacks for the first time.”
Expecting a Fierce Battle
Erasmus was under no illusion about the challenge ahead. “Both teams are stacked with quality, and neither will hold back.
Every point will count, and we need to stay sharp mentally and physically.
Matches like these are about fire meeting fire.”
Kick-off is at 09:05 SA time, with live coverage on SuperSport.
Fans around the world will be watching to see if the Springboks can finally crack the Eden Park code.