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Round 6 of the Rugby Championship pits South Africa against New Zealand at Ellis Park in Johannesburg. Join The Roar for live scores and updates from 1:00am (AEST).
While the Rugby Championship has already been decided there is still plenty to play for between these two great rivals.
The Springboks will be desperate to secure their first win over the All Blacks since 2011, needing the injection of confidence for the Rugby World Cup in 12 months’ time.
The All Blacks will simply want to maintain their recent dominance over their respected rivals.
Both teams have had their issues leading up to this match in terms of injuries.
For South Africa, Bismarck du Plessis has been recalled to the starting line-up at the expense of Adrian Strauss, who drops to the reserves. Meanwhile, colossal number 8 Duane Vermuelen has been cleared from injury, a big relief to Springbok fans given the relative inexperience of the loose forward unit compared to New Zealand’s trio.
The Springboks have again named an imposing and experienced bench with Strauss, Schalk Burger and Bakkies Botha waiting in the wings along with the exciting Cobus Reinach and Pat Lambie to be called upon to add spark late in the match.
The All Blacks have lost some key personnel, with starting loosehead Wyatt Crockett succumbing to injury and dynamic lock Brodie Rettalick sitting out due to concussion concerns.
In a surprise selection, Joe Moody has been selected to start his first Test at loosehead over the more experienced Ben Franks, while Charlie Faumuina fills the reserve prop vacancy on the bench, and the hard-working Jeremy Thrush is provided another starting opportunity in Retallick’s absence.
Sam Cane has also dropped out of the match-day 23, with Liam Messam and Stephen Luatua the preferred loose forward options on the bench. Luatua provides cover at lock as well. Tawera Kerr Barlow has also been afforded an opportunity from the bench, with TJ Perenara dropping out.
Kevin Mealamu and Malakai Fekitoa have kept their starting positions from last week despite the availability of both Dane Coles and Ryan Crotty, who occupy the bench. Nathan Harris drops out and Crotty replaces the injured Cory Jane.
An intense and brutal confrontation waits between the number 1 and 2 sides in the world. We will be here to cover every minute of the action.
Prediction: All Blacks by 8.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.