Embrose Papier returns as Springboks rotate squad for Scotland clash

Scrum-half Embrose Papier is set to make his first Springboks appearance since 2018 after being named in a much-changed South Africa side to face Scotland in the Nations Championship on Saturday.

Embrose Papier Returns For Springboks

Papier has been selected at scrum-half for the Test at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria after a strong United Rugby Championship season with the Bulls.

The 29-year-old will form a Bulls half-back partnership with Handre Pollard, who starts at fly-half as South Africa rotate their squad following last weekend’s 45-21 win over England at Ellis Park.

South Africa Make 10 Changes

Head coach Rassie Erasmus has made 10 changes to the starting XV for the Scotland fixture. Aphelele Fassi comes in at full-back, with Edwill van der Merwe and Canan Moodie named on the wings.

Damian Willemse, who started at full-back against England, shifts to inside centre. Boan Venter, Johan Grobbelaar and Wilco Louw form a new front row after Ox Nche was ruled out with a knee injury.

Ruan Nortje keeps his place at lock and is joined by Cobus Wiese, while Evan Roos starts at No.8. Pieter-Steph du Toit will captain the team in the absence of Siya Kolisi.

Springboks Prepare For Scotland Test

Erasmus said the changes reflected South Africa’s squad depth and the need to give more players opportunities during the season.

"We have good depth in our squad, and this will be a great test for the team," said Erasmus.

"We told the players from the outset that we would give as many of them a chance as possible to play this season.

"Many of the players will also be playing at their home ground Loftus Versfeld, so they know the field and conditions well."

South Africa XV (1-15): Aphelele Fassi; Edwill van der Merwe, Jesse Kriel, Damian Willemse, Canan Moodie; Handre Pollard, Embrose Papier; Evan Roos, Pieter-Steph du Toit (capt), Paul de Villiers; Ruan Nortje, Cobus Wiese; Wilco Louw, Johan Grobbelaar, Boan Venter

Reserves: Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Ntuthuko Mchunu, Zach Porthen, Ben-Jason Dixon, Vincent Tshituka, Elrigh Louw, Grant Williams, Quan Horn