South Africa forced into late changes ahead of Wallabies clash

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has made two late changes to his starting team for their Rugby Championship rematch against Australia in Cape Town.

First, starting fullback Willie le Roux was ruled out due to a groin niggle sustained in training. His place in the No. 15 jersey has been taken by Aphelele Fassi, who will now make a consecutive start after playing in the previous match.

Then, just hours before kick-off, Jean-Luc du Preez was withdrawn from the team due to illness. He had been set to start at number eight, his first Test start in seven years.

In his absence, Kwagga Smith moves into the starting XV at No. 8. To fill out the bench, Andre Esterhuizen has also been added. This adjustment shifts the bench split to five forwards and three backs, reflecting a more forward-themed strategy.

The remainder of the team remains unchanged, with Canan Moodie and Cheslin Kolbe joining Fassi in the back three, Damian de Allende paired with captain Jesse Kriel in midfield, and Grant Williams alongside Handré Pollard in the half-backs.

The forward pack consists of locks Ruan Nortje and RG Snyman, with Thomas du Toit, Malcolm Marx, and Ox Nche forming the tight five, supported by flankers Marco van Staden, Franco Mostert, and the newly promoted Kwagga Smith.