South Africa’s Rugby Championship campaign is set to kick off with a much-changed team as they face Australia in their opening match. Former Ireland international lock Jean Kleyn will make his debut, while flyhalf Manie Libbok and flanker Marco van Staden will also make their first starts.
Coach Jacques Nienaber has opted for a split squad tactic, sending several first-team players to New Zealand ahead of their clash with the All Blacks on July 15. In their absence, Kleyn, Libbok, and Van Staden have been given the opportunity to prove themselves at international level.
Kleyn, who was born in South Africa but moved to Munster in 2016, became eligible to play for Ireland through residency. He represented Ireland in five tests but hadn’t played for them since the 2019 Rugby World Cup. The recent rule change by World Rugby now allows test-capped players to represent a second national team after a period of three years of inactivity with their original country.
Kleyn will partner Marvin Orie in the second row, while Frans Malherbe, Ox Nche, and Bongi Mbonambi complete the front row. The back row consists of captain Duane Vermeulen, Marco van Staden, and Pieter-Steph du Toit. Cobus Reinach will be at scrumhalf, partnering with Manie Libbok, while Andre Esterhuizen and Lukhanyo Am form the centre pairing. Canan Moodie and Kurt-Lee Arendse will be on the wings, with Willie le Roux serving as the fullback.
Nienaber emphasized the importance of the match against Australia and the need to set the tone for the season. The team is fully aware of the threat posed by Australia and the tactical expertise of their head coach, Eddie Jones. While keeping an eye on the opponent’s style of play, Nienaber’s focus remains firmly on his team’s performance and executing their game plan.
The Springboks will be looking to build momentum and gain confidence ahead of their clash with the All Blacks. Playing Australia in their opener provides the ideal opportunity for the squad to showcase their skills and lay down a marker for the season ahead. The match is expected to be physical and intense, with both teams eager to start their campaign on a winning note.
In addition to Kleyn, Libbok, and Van Staden, the Springbok bench includes the likes of Joseph Dweba, Vincent Koch, and Damian Willemse, providing valuable options for Nienaber during the game.
As the team takes to the field in Pretoria, South African rugby fans will be eagerly anticipating an impressive performance and a successful start to their Rugby Championship campaign. The match against Australia promises to be an exciting encounter, and supporters will be hoping for a dominant display from the Springboks.
