Rassie Erasmus explains Springboks reshuffle for Australia tests

The Boks will host the Wallabies in back-to-back tests at Ellis Park on Saturday before hosting them in Cape Town a week later, with the 23-man squad having been named earlier today.

One of the few surprises will see Kolisi in an unfamiliar eighth man role, while Kwagga Smith – a traditional No. 8 – occupies a spot among five forwards and three backs on the bench, but Erasmus has an ace up his sleeve.

"The more we practiced and prepared, the more we realised that this would be our best option. Having guys like Pieter, Marko, and Siya, on the field at the same time is a response to Australia's big threat at the breakdown. 

"The Australians bite really hard at the breakdown, so we need guys who are really good at cleaning out at the breakdown," explained Erasmus. 

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Meanwhile, Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye is the least-capped player in the squad and could make only his second official appearance in a Bok shirt should he feature against Australia, with Erasmus explaining his hopes for the 26-year-old.

"A few experienced players are not in this team, so someone needs to step up. We feel that Asenathi Ntlabakanye could also be really useful during open play because he has a great feel for the game."

With the draw for the pool stage of the 2027 Rugby World Cup set for December, the two-time World Cup-winning tactician doesn't see the Boks dropping out of the top three in the World Rugby ranking.

 "I don't think the top three teams will be in trouble with regard to the draw, but once you slip down to five and six, you may get a challenging draw. 

"We are firmly focused on this matter and these two test matches right now."

As for the battle at scrumhalf, Grant Williams, who will start ahead of Cobus Reinach against the Australians this weekend, refused to be drawn on whether he wants to "make the No.9 jersey his own."