Erasmus names a strong Springbok side for Rugby Championship opener

The two-time World Cup winning coach, Rassie Erasmus and gone with a strong side and a 5/3 bench split to face Australia this Saturday. As ususal, there are also a few surprises.

With Jasper Wiese suspended, captain, Siya Kolisi will wear the number eight jersey with Marco van Staden and Pieter-Steph du Toin starting on the side of the scrum.

Predictably, Lood de Jager and Eben Etzebeth start at lock with Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx and Wilco Louw starting in the front row.

Among the backs, in-form Grant Williams takes the number nine jersey with Manie Libbok starting in the key flyhalf position. Damian de Allende is not in the matchday squad with Andre Esterhuizen starting at 12. Jesse Kriel holds onto the outside centre berth while Edwill van der Merwe and Cheslin Kolbe start on the wings.

At fullback, Aphelele Fassi's very strong form is rewarded with a start as well. The bench is split 5-3 with Rassie opting for a bit more safety. The backs that make the bench includes Damien Willemse, Canan Moodie and Cobus Reinach.

It will be an exciting day out for Asenathi Ntabakanye, who is also on the nehc alongside Bongi Mbonambi and Jan-Hendrik Wessels.