Springboks brace for ruthless Wallabies attack

The Boks will be aiming for a fifth consecutive win over the Wallabies, but Erasmus warns that Joe Schmidt’s side will bring physicality and precision.

He believes the visitors will challenge South Africa in areas where the Boks are usually dominant, meaning missed opportunities could prove costly.

"Australia's loose forward combination is pretty impressive; they scrum really well too, but I think this will be more of an aerial battle because the high altitude in Johannesburg allows for it," explained the Bok coach. 

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Winger Edwill van der Merwe replaces Cheslin Kolbe on the right wing after Kolbe was ruled out with a minor knee injury.

Erasmus has praised Van der Merwe’s work rate in training and his performances in recent games, saying the Bulls player will play a key role in countering Australia’s kicking game and ensuring the Boks capitalise on scoring chances.

Erasmus also reflected on his history with Wallabies coach Schmidt, admitting he feels some nerves facing his former mentor.

Schmidt is credited with building Ireland into a rugby powerhouse. 

The Bok coach says Schmidt’s tactical acumen will test South Africa’s ability to finish their opportunities under pressure.

"Joe Schmidt is a very particular and detail-oriented kind of a guy. He knows exactly what he wants from his players, who are always on edge to satisfy his demands. 

"He is a very competitive guy, and I know that the Aussies will be on a bit of a high after how they finished the British and Irish Lions series."

Erasmus has stuck to his rotation policy, with 18 World Cup winners in the 23-man squad. Grant Williams starts at scrumhalf with Cobus Reinach on the bench, while Faf de Klerk and Jaden Hendrikse remain in contention for future matches.

Erasmus says all scrumhalves under the Boks are operating at a high level, and the jersey belongs to all three…