UPDATE: South Africa’s Springboks have just announced a crucial change to their starting line-up as they prepare for their final Rugby Championship test against Argentina on September 30, 2023, at Twickenham. Prop Ox Nche returns to the front row, stepping in for Boan Venter, as the Springboks aim to secure their title with a bonus-point victory.
Nche’s comeback follows a dominating 67-30 victory over the same Argentine side just last weekend, a match that positioned South Africa at the top of the table. This change is expected to significantly bolster their scrum, critical for maintaining their title hopes. With a win on Saturday, South Africa can clinch the championship regardless of the outcome of the match between Australia and New Zealand in Perth.
Coach Rassie Erasmus is fully aware of the stakes. “Argentina may be out of the title race, but they have proven they can beat the best, including the All Blacks and Wallabies this season,” Erasmus stated. He anticipates a challenging match-up, especially given the fiery exchanges witnessed in their last encounter in Durban.
The Springboks currently hold a points difference of +55, compared to New Zealand’s -6, making every point vital. In addition to Nche, South Africa has selected a strong bench, featuring experienced players like Grant Williams, Bongi Mbonambi, and Jesse Kriel, who collectively boast 186 caps.
The complete starting line-up for South Africa against Argentina includes:
– 15-Damian Willemse
– 14-Cheslin Kolbe
– 13-Canan Moodie
– 12-Damian de Allende
– 11-Ethan Hooker
– 10-Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
– 9-Cobus Reinach
– 8-Jasper Wiese
– 7-Pieter-Steph du Toit
– 6-Siya Kolisi (captain)
– 5-Ruan Nortje
– 4-Eben Etzebeth
– 3-Thomas du Toit
– 2-Malcolm Marx
– 1-Ox Nche
As the clock counts down to the match, the tension is palpable. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if the Springboks can maintain their impressive form and secure their championship title in what promises to be an intense showdown. Keep an eye on the developments as the match approaches, with kickoff set for 15:00 BST at Twickenham.
