Springboks Squad to face Italy

November 23, 2017
2703
South African Rugby

Bongi Mbonambi will make his first start for the Springboks against Italy in Padova, while Pieter-Steph du Toit returns to the starting team for Saturday’s Test against Italy.

Furthermore, the uncapped Warrick Gelant has been included on the bench and will make his Springbok debut should he go onto the field of play during the match.

The Springbok management decided not to risk Malcolm Marx for this weekend’s match, following the shoulder injury he sustained last week against France. This means Mbonambi, who has 12 Test caps to his name, will earn his first start on Saturday.Chiliboy Ralepelle will join Gelant on the bench.

Du Toit is fit again and picked at flank, where he replaces Siya Kolisi, who is not available for this match because of the birth of his second child. The versatile Du Toit suffered concussion two weeks ago against Ireland and as a result he missed the Springbok victory over France in Paris.

The rest of the team that edged the French in the Stade de France in the previous outing is retained.

“We decided not to risk Malcolm, which means Bongi will get a well-deserved first start in the No 2 jersey,” said Springbok coach Allister Coetzee.

“Bongi has worked hard and I have no doubt he will grab this opportunity with both hands, as will Chiliboy, should he get a run.

“Warrick is in good form and his work-rate during training has been impressive. I know he will add value and I am very excited for the possibility of seeing him in action.”

The Springbok team to play against Italy in Padova:

15. Andries Coetzee, Emirates Lions – 11 caps, 0 points

14. Dillyn Leyds, DHL Stormers – 7 caps, 5 points (1 try)

13. Jesse Kriel, Vodacom Bulls – 27 caps, 35 points (7 tries)

12. Francois Venter, Toyota Cheetahs – 5 caps, 0 points

11. Courtnall Skosan, Emirates Lions – 11 caps, 10 points (2 tries)

10. Handré Pollard, Vodacom Bulls – 24 caps, 198 points (2 tries, 31 con, 39 penalties, 3 drops goals)

9. Ross Cronje, Emirates Lions – 8 caps, 10 points (1 tries)

8. Duane Vermeulen, Toulon (France) – 38 caps, 10 points (2 tries)

7. Pieter-Steph du Toit, DHL Stormers – 30 caps, 20 points (4 tries)

6. Francois Louw, Bath (England) – 56 caps, 40 points (8 tries)

5. Lood de Jager, Vodacom Bulls – 34 caps, 20 points (4 tries)