The Springboks are set to name a revamped team to face Argentina this week. Here’s when Rassie Erasmus will announce the matchday 23.
Several key players have been rested for the tour to Argentina, with Rassie Erasmus expressing confidence in the depth and capabilities of the broader squad.
It has been confirmed that the South African team will be named on Tuesday at approximately 20:00 (SA time).
Saturday’s match is scheduled to kick off at 23:00, and a victory for the Springboks would secure the Rugby Championship title with one round still to go.
The Springboks traveled to Buenos Aires via Sao Paulo over the weekend, with Ben-Jason Dixon, who is expected to start at blindside flank, sharing his excitement about his first trip to Argentina and the challenge that lies ahead.
“It’s amazing and so exciting to be here,” Dixon said.
“A lot of people say that playing in a stadium in Argentina feels hostile because the fans really support their team and create a tough environment for the opposition, but not in a bad way—it just makes things difficult.
“It’s a privilege to play against them here, and I hope I’ll get a chance to take the field. Just being here is fantastic, as I’ve always wanted to visit South America. We also had a brief stop in Sao Paulo on our way here, so I’m eager to see a bit of Buenos Aires and get back to training on Monday.”
Springboks ready for a crucial showdown in Argentina
South Africa currently holds an eight-point lead at the top of the standings over Argentina. While Dixon acknowledges that a win would be great, he’s also aware of the challenge ahead, especially against an Argentine side that has already beaten New Zealand and Australia in this competition.
Focusing on Saturday’s Test, Dixon emphasized that the Springboks must be at their best to claim victory and, hopefully, secure the title.
“Our mindset this week will be to treat the game like a final, and I’m sure everyone in the squad will approach it that way, so we can hopefully get the win,” Dixon said.
“Argentina likes to play with the ball, so we cannot afford to give them any opportunities. The key for us will be controlling our possession and performing well when we have the ball.”
