Kolisi back for Springboks as trio to debut against Georgia

Find out what’s new on ST website and app.

FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - Autumn Internationals - South Africa Press Conference - Lensbury, London, Britain - November 15, 2024 South Africas Siya Kolisi during the press conference Action Images via Reuters/John Sibley/File Photo

REUTERS

Captain Siya Kolisi will make his first appearance of the season for South Africa following a return from injury as the Springboks include three debutants for the one-off test against Georgia in Nelspruit on Saturday.

Kolisi will play at flanker alongside Pieter-Steph du Toit and number eight Cobus Wiese, as the latter takes over from his brother Jasper, who was suspended for four matches following a red card in the 45-0 win over Italy last Saturday.

Eben Etzebeth returns to the side with Ruan Nortje in the second row, while props Boan Venter and Neethling Fouche make their debuts for the four-time Rugby World Cup winners. Marnus van der Merwe is at hooker in an all-new front row.

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is back at flyhalf along with scrumhalf Grant Williams, who was outstanding against the Italians. Damian de Allende and Canan Moodie are the centre pairing.

Kurt-Lee Arendse and Edwill van der Merwe feature on the wing, with Aphelele Fassi returning to the side at fullback.

Coach Rassie Erasmus has now used 46 players in three fixtures so far this season as he continues to build depth within the squad.

We wanted to make sure that Siya is 100% fit before selecting him, so it’s great to have him back in the