Rassie Erasmus opts for strength, experience for Ireland clash

The Springboks will be looking to make a statement in Dublin on Saturday (22 November) as they take on Ireland. 

Coach Rassie Erasmus has put his strongest, most experienced starting team forward, with 876 caps between them, to secure his first win against Ireland as head coach.

On the bench, RG Snyman could become the third squad member to achieve 50 test caps.

Ruan Nortjie was promoted from the bench to the starting lineup in place of Lood de Jager, while Kwagga Smith returns to the bench in his place.

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Changes also come in the backline where Canan Moodie moves from centre to wing to fill in for Kurt-Lee Arendse, who returns to South Africa after suffering a concussion last week.

Speaking to John Maytham, Daily Maverick sports editor Craig Ray says it is a very strong team with the bench probably having the final say in whether we win or lose.

“It’s a power bench for South Africa, and I think the Irish bench is not as powerful. The Springboks have finished games very strongly since Eden Park; they have won every second half quite convincingly."

He adds, “It is the best chance the Springboks are going to have to beat Ireland in Dublin that they have had in six years. This is a great Springbok team, they have been playing really well, they‘ve got good momentum and combinations.”

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To listen to Ray in conversation with CapeTalk’s John Maytham, click below: