Erasmus Gives Two Springboks Time To Recharge
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has confirmed that Pieter-Steph du Toit and Damian de Allende have been released from the team’s Australian camp as South Africa prepares for a Test against the Wallabies.
The experienced duo will return to South Africa to spend time with their families after a demanding period of international rugby.
Erasmus believes the Springboks have enough depth within the travelling squad to cope with their absence for the upcoming clash.
Du Toit And De Allende Given A Break
Du Toit has been a key figure in the Springboks pack, while De Allende provides experience and versatility in the midfield.
Their release comes after South Africa’s demanding Rugby Championship campaign, during which the Springboks secured a 3-1 series victory over New Zealand.
With another important Test approaching, Erasmus has opted to manage the workload of several players rather than risk unnecessary fatigue.
Wallabies Test Carries Extra Significance
The Springboks are preparing to face Australia at Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday, 27 September.
Erasmus has stressed that the match is far more than a routine fixture, particularly with Australia set to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
South Africa will also face Australia as part of its preparations ahead of the next phase of the international season.
Erasmus Expects A Different Challenge
The Springbok coach acknowledged that the Wallabies present a different challenge from the All Blacks, despite the attention surrounding South Africa’s recent series triumph.
Erasmus said the long-standing rivalry between the two nations adds further importance to the encounter and insisted that the Springboks do not want to finish their Australian tour casually.
He also highlighted the significance of playing against the hosts of next year’s World Cup in their own country.
New-Look Springboks Could Take Shape
With Du Toit and De Allende released and Erasmus looking to manage player workloads, changes to the starting XV are expected for the Perth Test.
The Springboks will be aiming to maintain their momentum while giving other squad members an opportunity to step up against Australia.
The match kicks off at 11:45 South African time on Sunday, 27 September, with live coverage available on SuperSport.
Springboks’ Remaining 2026 Fixtures
Wallabies v Springboks
Sunday, 27 September
Optus Stadium, Perth
11:45 SA time
Italy v Springboks
Saturday, 7 November
Allianz Stadium, Turin
16:00
France v Springboks
Friday, 13 November
Stade de France, Paris
22:00
Ireland v Springboks
Saturday, 21 November
Aviva Stadium, Dublin
19:30
Nations Championship Finals Weekend
27–29 November
Twickenham Stadium, London
Kick-off TBC
