South Africa go big and bold with reboot of forward heavy bench against Ireland

19/09/2023 19:50

• Springboks opt for 7-1 split in favour of forwards in reserve
• Etzebeth fit to play for South Africa with Libbok starting at 10

The influential Eben Etzebeth is fit to face Ireland this weekend and has been included in a power-laden South Africa side for the pivotal Pool B match at the Stade de France on Saturday. The Springboks have also opted to roll out a forward-dominated bench with just one backline specialist among their replacements.

Etzebeth missed South Africa's game against Romania with a sore shoulder which had previously forced him off early against Scotland but is back for one of the biggest collisions of the tournament to date. A Springbok win would effectively cement them as pool winners and leave Ireland sweating on their game against Scotland to guarantee qualification for the knockout stages.