Springboks replace Kolisi with De Villiers for first All Blacks test

South Africa's rugby captain, Siya Kolisi, has been sidelined for the first test against New Zealand at Ellis Park, a decision that sees the inexperienced Paul de Villiers step in as captain. Coach Rassie Erasmus stated that while Kolisi trained well and was fit, the team opted for De Villiers for this specific match.

Several other key positions have seen changes. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will start at flyhalf, pushing Manie Libbok to the bench, while Handre Pollard is also not in the starting lineup. Grant Williams has been chosen to start at scrumhalf. The midfield will feature Damian de Allende, who is set to earn his 100th test cap, partnering Jesse Kriel.

The front row includes Malcolm Marx, Ox Nche, and Wilco Louw. Eben Etzebeth and Ruan Nortje form the lock pairing. The back row consists of flankers De Villiers and Pieter-Steph du Toit, with Jasper Wiese at number eight. This match marks the beginning of the 'Rugby's Greatest Rivalry' series, a four-game contest between the Springboks and the All Blacks. South Africa enters the series with a strong recent record against their rivals, having won five of their last six tests, including a dominant 43-10 victory in their most recent meeting.

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Siya trained well with us this week and, although we could have selected him for this clash, we thought it would be best to select Paul for this weekend’s game.