The New Zealand All Blacks are gearing up for a highly anticipated Rugby Championship clash against South Africa's Springboks at Emirates Airline Park in Johannesburg on Saturday. The match is set to be a pivotal encounter between two of rugby's most formidable teams, both of whom are coming off contrasting results in the tournament so far.
Team Preparations and Squad Announcements
The All Blacks have announced a strong team for the upcoming Test, with Head Coach Scott Robertson making three changes to the squad that convincingly defeated Argentina 42-10 at Eden Park. Scott Barrett returns from a broken finger to captain the side, replacing Sam Whitelock in the starting lineup. Sam Cane, who has been out of action since the Rugby World Cup final last year, is back in the starting lineup at openside flanker, marking his 97th Test appearance. Additionally, loose forward Samipeni Finau joins the bench, adding depth to the All Blacks’ forward pack
The All Blacks have named a robust forward pack, with players like Ardie Savea, who will serve as vice-captain, and Ethan Blackadder expected to play crucial roles in countering the physicality of the Springboks. The backline is bolstered by experienced names such as Beauden Barrett, Damian McKenzie, and Rieko Ioane, with TJ Perenara starting at scrumhalf
Injury Updates and Traveling Squad
Notably, the All Blacks will be without lock Patrick Tuipulotu and outside back Stephen Perofeta, both of whom are sidelined due to calf injuries. The team, however, has strong replacements in Josh Lord and utility back Harry Plummer, who have been retained in the squad after covering for the injured players during the Argentina Tests
Springboks Ready for the Challenge
The Springboks, on the other hand, are also making strategic changes to their squad. They have confirmed that star lock Eben Etzebeth has been cleared to play after recovering from an injury, though he will start from the bench. The South African side has also brought back Jasper Wiese, who makes his first appearance of the season, to strengthen their pack. With an electric atmosphere expected at Ellis Park, the Springboks are keen to leverage their home advantage and build on their recent victories over Australia
Coach's Thoughts
Speaking ahead of the match, Scott Robertson emphasised the significance of playing at Ellis Park, describing it as one of the greatest tests in rugby. "We will embrace the occasion. We have a lot of respect for the Springboks and we are looking forward to what will be an electric atmosphere at an iconic venue," Robertson said
As both teams finalise their preparations, anticipation is building for what promises to be a thrilling encounter between these two rugby powerhouses. The All Blacks are looking to maintain their momentum and further establish their dominance in the Rugby Championship, while the Springboks will be aiming to continue their strong form at home.
The match kicks off at 3:00 AM NZST (Sunday) at Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg, with a second encounter scheduled for September 8 at DHL Stadium in Cape Town
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