South Africa, with Siya Kolisi as captain, will face Georgia in a test match at Mbombela Stadium this Saturday. Coach Rassie Erasmus has included three debutants in the front row. Kolisi, recovered from an injury that prevented him from playing the two matches against Italy, will lead the team again alongside Eben Etzebeth. New players Boan Venter, Marnus van der Merwe and Neethling Fouche will also be starters. These three players with no international experience bring the number of debutants this season to seven. Vincent Tshituka (flanker), Wiese, Asenathi Ntlabakanye (prop) and Ethan Hooker (versatile player) already debuted against Italy.
Erasmus also highlighted the importance of squad depth, a key objective since 2018. The new players are ready to prove their worth. The coach added that Georgia is a passionate and intense team, so experienced players were selected to gain playing time and young players who have proven their worth. Although South Africa has never lost against Georgia and they haven’t faced each other since 2021, Erasmus warns that the match will be a significant challenge to prepare for the Rugby Championship.We wanted to make sure Siya was 100% before selecting him, so it’s fantastic to have him back. Boan, Marnus, and Neethling have trained hard and deserve their opportunity.
Rassie Erasmus
Erasmus emphasizes the need to be sharp in all facets of the game to maintain the level, gain momentum, and achieve the desired result.Georgia is a tough team, proud of its physicality and brute strength in collisions. Set plays, mauls, and breakdowns will be key.
Rassie Erasmus
