South Africa Team Selection - Brawn Or Pace?
South Africa Team Selection – Brawn Or Pace?
South Africa have made five changes from their starting side that faced the Pumas in Argentina two weeks ago.
The strong frame of Bismark du Plessis replaces Adriaan Strauss at hooker, as the Springboks are clearly looking to bully their way through the Wallabies.
Australia, who announced today that they have chosen to start Quade Cooper at fly-half, are clearly looking to employ the opposite tactic by playing a fast-paced attacking style of rugby.
Other changes see Flip van der Merwe come in at lock, while Zane Kirchner comes in at fullback; completely re-shuffling the look of the South African back three.
The coming two games against Australia are crucial for the Springboks as they look to set up a final showdown with New Zealand, for the Rugby Championship title.
South Africa looked incredible in the competition's first round, cruising to an emphatic 73-13 win over Argentina. However, there foot came off the gas pedal a week later when they scraped to a 22-17 victory in Argentina.
Will trying to outmuscle the Wallabies be the way to go?
Springboks: Zane Kirchner, Willie le Roux, JJ Engelbrecht, Jean de Villiers (captain), Bryan Habana, Morne Steyn, Ruan Pienaar, Duane Vermeulen, Willem Alberts, Francois Louw, Flip van der Merwe, Eben Etzebeth; Jannie du Plessis, Bismarck du Plessis, Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: Adriaan Strauss, Gurthro Steenkamp, Coenie Oosthuizen, Juandre Kruger, Siya Kolisi, Jano Vermaak, Pat Lambie, Jan Serfontein.
