The Springboks are gearing up for a crucial test against Argentina, with a much-changed team taking to the field in Buenos Aires. With 13 new players in the starting lineup, the team is a mix of experienced international stars and talented rising stars. The focus is on getting tough Tests under the belt and getting back into full swing at the international level.
One of the key players returning to the team is Siya Kolisi, the double World Cup-winning captain. Kolisi missed the first three Tests of the year but is back to lead the team from blindside. He is joined by other experienced internationals, such as the fit-again lock duo of Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager, who bring over 200 caps worth of experience to the team.
The fly-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who scored a Springbok record 37 points against Argentina in Durban last year, returns after two months out with an ankle injury to take his place at 10. Meanwhile, Andre Esterhuizen and Ethan Hooker have recovered from their niggles to take their place at inside centre and left wing.
Scrum-half Cobus Reinach and full-back Aphelele Fassi are the only players to retain their spots in the starting XV from the win over Wales three weeks ago. The starting team includes a completely new pack, with Boan Venter and Thomas du Toit packing down in the front row, while Etzebeth and De Jager are in the engine room, with Kolisi, Elrigh Louw, and Cameron Hanekom taking over the reins in the loose trio.
In the backline, Reinach and Feinberg-Mngomezulu are the half-backs, while Esterhuizen will partner Canan Moodie in the midfield. Hooker, Edwill van der Merwe, and Fassi form an exciting back three.
The Springboks are aware of the challenge ahead, as Argentina is a formidable team that will push them to the limit. Erasmus said, "The Argentineans are very similar to South Africans in many ways. Their passion and patriotism for their country and people, and the way they give everything on the field and keep fighting is a testament to the type of Test match we are expecting this weekend."
The match, which will be hosted at Estadio José Amalfitani in the Argentinean capital, kicks off at 21h00 (SA time) and will be broadcast live on SuperSport. The Springboks will have to be at their best to win this match, as they have had to grind out results against Argentina on several occasions in the past.
In conclusion, the Springboks are facing a tough challenge against Argentina, but with a mix of experienced and talented players, they are confident of rising to the occasion. The match will be a true test of their skills and determination, and the team is ready to give it their all.
