This Content Is Only For Subscribers
For the first time since 1971, the South African national rugby team, the Springboks, have achieved back-to-back test victories over Australia on Australian soil. In a fiercely contested Rugby Championship match played in rainy conditions at Optus Stadium in Perth, the Springboks defeated Australia 30-12 on Saturday, marking their second win of the 2024 Rugby Championship and cementing their position at the top of the table.
The world champions entered the game fully aware of the significance of a win against the struggling Wallabies. The Boks are edging closer to reclaiming the Rugby Championship title they last won in 2019. However, they face a formidable challenge later this month when they meet long-standing rivals New Zealand at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg.
Rassie Erasmus’ side went into this match brimming with confidence after their commanding 33-7 victory over Australia in the championship opener at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane the previous Saturday. Erasmus made several changes to the roster, including the introduction of young talents like Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who are still adjusting to international competition. Salmaan Moerat was once again entrusted with the captaincy.
Meanwhile, Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt recalled veteran winger Marika Koroibete (32) to replace Filipo Dunguno, who was sidelined due to an injury sustained in the previous match. Schmidt also introduced Nic White (34), Angus Bell (23), Josh Nasser (25), and Angus Blyth (26) to the squad. Seru Uru and Max Jorgensen came off the bench in the second half.
In what was seen as a revenge match, the Wallabies initially caught the Springboks off guard, capitalizing on early mistakes. However, the Springboks quickly found their footing, staying composed and exploiting the Wallabies’ weaknesses. The introduction of Malcolm Marx, Ox Nche, Kwagga Smith, and experienced flyhalf Handré Pollard proved pivotal for South Africa, stabilizing the scrums and allowing them to break through the Wallabies’ defensive line without relying on kicks.
After two rounds of the 2024 Rugby Championship, South Africa tops the table with 10 points, followed by New Zealand with 5 points, Argentina in third place with 4 points, and Australia at the bottom with zero points.
Springboks’ Next Rugby Championship Fixture:
South Africa vs New Zealand, Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg, August 31, 2024.
Springboks Squad:
- Aphelele Fassi, 14. Cheslin Kolbe, 13. Jesse Kriel, 12. Lukhanyo Am, 11. Makazole Mapimpi, 10. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9. Morne van den Berg, 8. Elrigh Louw, 7. Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6. Marco van Staden, 5. Ruan Nortje, 4. Salmaan Moerat (captain), 3. Thomas du Toit, 2. Johan Grobbelaar, 1. Jan-Hendrik Wessels.
Replacements: 16. Malcolm Marx, 17. Ox Nche, 18. Vincent Koch, 19. Eben Etzebeth, 20. Kwagga Smith, 21. Grant Williams, 22. Manie Libbok, 23. Handré Pollard.
Australia Squad:
- Tom Wright, 14. Andrew Kellaway, 13. Len Ikitau, 12. Hunter Paisami, 11. Marika Koroibete, 10. Noah Lolesio, 9. Nic White, 8. Harry Wilson, 7. Carlo Tizzano, 6. Rob Valetini, 5. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, 4. Angus Blyth, 3. Allan Alaalatoa (captain), 2. Josh Nasser, 1. Angus Bell.
Replacements: 16. Billy Pollard, 17. James Slipper, 18. Zane Nonggorr, 19. Tom
Unlock Exclusive Content!
