Springboks make eleven changes for Italy clash

South Africa will start with 11 changes to their starting XV for Saturday’s Autumn Series match against Italy, head coach Rassie Erasmus confirmed on Thursday.

Only prop Boan Venter, captain Siya Kolisi, and backs Kurt-Lee Arendse and Damian Willemse retain their places from the side that defeated France 32-17 in Paris.

Damian Willemse will start at fullback while Edwill van der Merwe is preferred at right wing along with Canan Moodie and Ethan Hooker at midfield.

Erasmus explained the overhaul: “We said from the outset of the tour that we want to give as many players as possible a chance to play, and we believe this team is best suited to the threats Italy will pose.”

Despite being heavy favourites, South Africa will not underestimate Italy, who stunned Australia 26-19 in Udine and have shown considerable improvement in recent seasons.

Italy seek only their second victory in 18 matches against the Springboks.

“They tested us well in both matches [in July], and put up a brave fight,” Erasmus added. “Their victory against Australia will also boost their confidence immensely.”

South Africa XV: 15 Damian Willemse, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Canan Moodie, 12 Ethan Hooker, 11 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 10 Handré Pollard, 9 Morne van den Berg, 8 Marco van Staden, 7 Ben-Jason Dixon, 6 Siya Kolisi (c), 5 Franco Mostert, 4 Jean Kleyn, 3 Zachary Porthen, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Boan Venter

Reserves: 16 Gerhard Steenekamp, 17 Wilco Louw, 18 RG Snyman, 19 Ruan Nortje, 20 André Esterhuizen, 21 Kwagga Smith, 22 Grant Williams, 23 Manie Libbok