Siya Kolisi returns as South Africa brings key players for England showdown

South Africa has announced a reinforced lineup for their highly anticipated clash with England, recalling captain Siya Kolisi, along with powerhouse players RG Snyman and Pieter-Steph du Toit.

Kolisi, who returns to the starting XV, will be joined by fellow stars Damian de Allende, Jesse Kriel, and Cheslin Kolbe—all of whom were rested during last week’s victory over Scotland at Murrayfield.

The inclusion of Wilco Louw at tighthead prop comes in the absence of Frans Malherbe, offering Louw a rare start as Erasmus seeks to bolster the team’s strength upfront.

Louw, who recently returned to the Bulls after a stint with Harlequins, has shown impressive form, which earns him a place over Vincent Koch and Thomas du Toit.

Erasmus anticipates a tough, physically demanding game against England, known for their energy-draining blitz defense and strategic kicking.

The Springboks boss has crafted his lineup with these factors in mind, choosing a 5-3 forward-to-back split on the bench to ensure robust coverage across all areas of play.

“England play a really energy-sapping game,” Erasmus explained, noting that this approach will challenge both teams’ endurance. “If we can keep the ball, that will tire them.”

He expects England to stick with their defensive and kicking strategy, which demands speed and adaptability from his players.

To match England’s pace, Erasmus has brought in cover through experienced backs like Lukhanyo Am, Handre Pollard, and Cobus Reinach, aiming to counter England’s tactics and maintain resilience throughout the game.

In a notable decision, Erasmus has put his faith in fly-half Manie Libbok over Handre Pollard. Libbok’s year has seen its share of challenges, including a missed penalty in a close game against Argentina. However, Erasmus believes Libbok’s creativity and potential are essential for the Springboks' success against England’s defensive line.

South Africa: 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Cheslin Kolbe, 13 Jesse Kriel, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 10 Manie Libbok, 9 Grant Williams, 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 Siya Kolisi (c), 5 RG Snyman, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Bongi Mbonambi, 1 Ox Nche

Reserves: 16 Malcolm Marx, 17 Gerhard Steenekamp, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Elrigh Louw, 20 Kwagga Smith, 21 Cobus Reinach, 22 Handre Pollard, 23 Lukhanyo Am