Junior Boks make key tweaks for Australia as Foote backs strong preparation

The second-round encounter kicks off at 16:10, with the Junior Boks tweaking both their starting XV and bench following their opening-round performance against Argentina.

Foote has made just one change to the starting pack from the side that impressed against Argentina, with Wasi Vyambwera coming in at blindside flank in place of Thomas Beling.

In the backline, Khuthadzo Rasivhaga replaces Lindsey Jansen on the left wing, while Akahluwa Boqwana takes over at fullback from Alzeadon Felix.

There are also a few tweaks on the bench, where prop Luan van der Berg comes in for the injured Kai Pratt, and Gert Kemp provides loose forward cover in place of Risima Khosa. Jade Muller, meanwhile, slots onto the bench as the reserve outside back.

According to Foote, the squad has put together a strong week of preparation ahead of Sunday's clash with Australia.

"We had a really good review of our performance against Argentina and, while we are very pleased with the result and the way the players performed on defence and attack for long periods of the match, there are obviously aspects of our game that need improvement," said Foote.

"Our focus is playing the full 80 minutes and ensuring that we stay on our game model to meet what will be a huge challenge against an Australian side that is well coached and boasts strong skill sets across the park."

Foote said the players are excited to be back at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium for their second fixture, especially after more than 10,000 spectators turned out for the opening round.

"The support we received against Argentina last week was absolutely fantastic, and we are excited to be playing in front of the passionate Eastern Cape rugby fans once again," he said.

Junior Springboks - 15 Akahluwa Boqwana, 14 Jack Benade, 13  Samuel Badenhorst, 12 Ethan Adams, 11Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, 10 Yaqeen Ahmed, 9 Hendre Schoeman, 8  Kebotile Maake, 7 Wasi Vyambwera, 6 Luke Canon, 5 Riley Norton (captain), 4 Heinrich Theron, 3 Danie Kruger, 2 Liam van Wyk, 1 Rambo Kubheka.

Replacements: 16 Mahle Sithole, 17 Oliver Reid, 18 Luan van der Berg, 19 JD Hattingh, 20 Gert Kemp, 21 Jayden Brits, 22 Vusi Moyo, 23 Jade Muller.

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