Springbok Coach Rassie Erasmus promises more surprises when SA plays Australia
The Bok team features a raft of changes to the starting lineup, including Jesse Kriel as captain and Ox Niche as his deputy.
South Africa's head coach Rassie Erasmus holds a ball ahead of the international rugby union Test match between South Africa and Italy at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on 12 July 2025. Picture: by PHILL MAGAKOE/AFP
CAPE TOWN - Springbok Coach Rassie Erasmus has promised more surprises when South Africa plays Australia in the second Rugby Championship Test in Cape Town.
The Bok team features a raft of changes to the starting lineup, including Jesse Kriel as captain and Ox Niche as his deputy.
On Wednesday, the squad took their training drills to Belhar.
Among the fans at Erica Park were school children in uniform, workers on lunch breaks and some who felt the occasion warranted an off day.
“We are behind our boys, and we’ll stay for all three hours for the training session. This speaks to the impact the Springboks have. Some people put in a sick day for this.”
Bok supporters said the loss to the Wallabies at Ellis Park over the weekend was not a total write-off and there’s method to Rassie’s madness.
“It’s a trade-off for us as supporters. We will have losses, we want wins, but it’s a process. He’s building for the 2027 World Cup.”
Ten changes to the starting 15 include wing pairing Canan Moodie.
Focused on the task at hand 🏉#Springboks #ForeverGreenForeverGold pic.twitter.com/KczCuN4xHz
— Springboks (@Springboks) August 19, 2025