As the Springboks gear up for their final Incoming Test of the season, it’s not just another rugby match—it’s a celebration of comebacks and fresh beginnings.
This weekend’s clash with Georgia in Nelspruit is shaping up to be a fascinating one, especially with captain Siya Kolisi making his long-awaited return and a trio of uncapped forwards stepping into the spotlight.
New Blood in the Front Row Brings Energy and Opportunity
South Africa’s starting front row is getting a complete makeover, with three players set to earn their first caps.
Boan Venter gets the nod at loosehead prop, Marnus van der Merwe starts at hooker, and Neethling Fouche completes the trio at tighthead prop.
All three were part of the dominant 54–7 win over the Barbarians and have clearly impressed the coaching staff since then.
Rassie Erasmus, director of rugby, expressed confidence in their readiness.
“These guys have been working hard behind the scenes, and they’ve earned their spot.
It’s all part of building the kind of squad depth we’ve focused on since 2018.”
With their inclusion, the number of players newly capped this season rises to seven.
They join the ranks of Vincent Tshituka, Cobus Wiese, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, and Ethan Hooker—who all debuted earlier this year.
Siya Kolisi Returns to Lead a Fresh-Looking Side
Springbok skipper Siya Kolisi is back at the helm after sitting out the last few matches with some minor injuries.
He’s joined in the loose trio by Pieter-Steph du Toit and Cobus Wiese, offering a powerful and balanced combination.
Erasmus emphasized that Kolisi’s return was timed carefully. “We didn’t want to rush Siya back.
Now that he’s 100%, we’re confident he’ll make a big impact.”
Kolisi’s presence adds vital experience to a squad that still features 15 players from South Africa’s World Cup-winning campaign.
Only a Handful of Starters Keep Their Spot
There’s been a big shuffle in the starting XV compared to last week’s 45–0 win over Italy.
Just five players keep their starting places as the coaching team continues to test combinations ahead of future tournaments.
In the back three, Aphelele Fassi starts at fullback, flanked by Edwill van der Merwe and Kurt-Lee Arendse.
Van der Merwe, who scored off the bench last week, has been promoted to the starting lineup.
The midfield is a blend of power and flair, with Canan Moodie and Damian de Allende linking up.
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, the young fly-half, partners Grant Williams at scrum-half, while Eben Etzebeth and Ruan Nortje team up in the engine room at lock.
Rassie Packs the Bench With Forward Firepower
As is often the case with the Boks, the bench is stacked with forward reinforcements.
Erasmus opted for a five-three split, meaning five forwards and three backs ready to come on and change the game.
Big names like Thomas du Toit, Vincent Koch, Bongi Mbonambi, RG Snyman, and Kwagga Smith offer serious impact potential.
In the backs, Faf de Klerk, Handré Pollard, and Damian Willemse provide tactical stability and creativity late in the game.
Full Springboks Team to Face Georgia
Starting XV
15. Aphelele Fassi
14. Edwill van der Merwe
13. Canan Moodie
12. Damian de Allende
11. Kurt-Lee Arendse
10. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
9. Grant Williams
8. Cobus Wiese
7. Pieter-Steph du Toit
6. Siya Kolisi (c)
5. Ruan Nortje
4. Eben Etzebeth
3. Neethling Fouche
2. Marnus van der Merwe
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Boan Venter
Replacements
16. Bongi Mbonambi
17. Thomas du Toit
18. Vincent Koch
19. RG Snyman
20. Kwagga Smith
21. Faf de Klerk
22. Handré Pollard
23. Damian Willemse
What’s Your Take on the Lineup?
Fans are already buzzing about this bold combination of youth and experience.
What do you think—has Rassie found the right mix for Georgia? Let us know your thoughts in the comments or drop a message on WhatsApp.
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