Wilco Louw returns as Ox Nche rested

The Springboks have made strategic adjustments to their front row, with Wilco Louw stepping in to replace Ox Nché, who has been rested ahead of the upcoming clash against Wales.

The change highlights the team's emphasis on squad rotation and maintaining peak performance levels as they navigate a demanding season.

Louw, a seasoned tighthead prop, is set to bring his physicality and experience back to the Springboks' scrummaging efforts.

His inclusion ensures the team retains its forward dominance while allowing Nché, who has been pivotal in recent matches, to recover and recharge.

The decision to rotate players comes as part of the Springboks' broader strategy to manage player workload and sustain performance across a rigorous schedule. This approach has been instrumental in their recent successes, ensuring the squad remains fresh and resilient.

Head coach Jacques Nienaber emphasized the importance of depth in the squad, stating that the rotations are designed to keep players at their best for key matches.

“We trust in the abilities of every player in the squad, and this change is about optimizing our performance,” he said.

South Africa: 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Cheslin Kolbe, 13 Jesse Kriel, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 10 Jordan Hendrikse, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Elrigh Louw, 6 Siya Kolisi (c), 5 Franco Mostert, 4 Jean Kleyn, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Thomas du Toit

Reserves: 16 Malcolm Marx, 17 Gerhard Steenekamp, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Eben Etzebeth, 20 RG Snyman, 21 Cameron Hanekom, 22 Cobus Reinach, 23 Handre Pollard