Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus will keep fans waiting a little longer before revealing his matchday 23 for Saturday’s blockbuster Test against the All Blacks at Ellis Park.
The Springboks are expected to announce their team at just before 14:00 on Thursday, 20 August, with New Zealand set to reveal its own Test lineup at around the same time. The decision gives Erasmus additional time to assess his players and make crucial selection calls ahead of the opening Test of the four-match Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
South Africa appear to have plenty of options available, with several key players having recovered from injuries. Among those back in contention are locks Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager, flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and scrumhalf Morne van den Berg.
Veteran utility forward Deon Fourie has also been brought back into the squad, adding further versatility and experience. His inclusion could prove particularly important as captain Siya Kolisi continues to be monitored after suffering a hamstring strain in the recent Test against Argentina.
Kolisi fitness creates major selection question
One of the biggest talking points heading into Thursday’s announcement will be the condition of Kolisi.
Should the influential captain be ruled out, Erasmus has several experienced options available to lead the world champions, with Pieter-Steph du Toit and Etzebeth among the leading possibilities.
Centre Jesse Kriel could also be considered for the captaincy, highlighting the depth of leadership within the Springbok squad.
Erasmus’ decision to delay the announcement could therefore give his medical and coaching staff valuable additional time to make the final call on Kolisi.
Tough calls at flyhalf and scrumhalf
The backline also presents Erasmus with some intriguing selection dilemmas.
Manie Libbok is expected to be strongly considered for the No. 10 jersey, which could leave the returning Feinberg-Mngomezulu among the replacements.
At scrumhalf, the battle between Grant Williams and Cobus Reinach could also determine who gets the starting nod.
With the All Blacks arriving in South Africa with renewed confidence, Erasmus will know that every selection decision could have a major influence on the opening encounter.
New Zealand recently strengthened its squad with the return of experienced flyhalf Richie Mo’unga, who has been called up after becoming eligible for selection.
Four-Test rivalry about to begin
Saturday’s clash at Ellis Park in Johannesburg is the first of four Tests between the Springboks and All Blacks as part of the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
The opening Test is scheduled for 22 August, followed by encounters at Cape Town Stadium on 29 August, FNB Stadium on 5 September and M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, USA, on 12 September.
The four-Test series represents another chapter in one of rugby’s greatest rivalries. South Africa and New Zealand have been competing against each other for more than a century, with the rivalry dating back to 1921.
The All Blacks have already been building momentum during their South African tour, recording emphatic wins over the Sharks and Bulls, while also defeating the Stormers in Cape Town. Their 54-0 victory over the Sharks was particularly eye-catching.
That makes Saturday’s Test an intriguing battle between two of international rugby’s heavyweight nations.
When will the Springboks team be announced?
Thursday, 20 August 2026
Just before 14:00 South African time
Springboks vs All Blacks
Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Saturday, 22 August 2026
17:10 SA time
For now, Springbok supporters will have to wait for Erasmus to reveal his hand.
The big question: Will Siya Kolisi be fit to lead the Boks, and who will get the nod at flyhalf and scrumhalf?
