England are playing big this Saturday. Beaten at home by New Zealand (22-24) then by Australia (37-42), the XV de la Rose must raise their heads if they want to save their fall tour. But the task will not be easy against the Springboks, reigning world champions.
Especially since South Africa brought out the big team, with no less than twelve changes compared to the XV which largely defeated Scotland last weekend (15-32). Only second row Eben Etzebeth, hooker Bongi Mbonambi and pillar Ox Nché retain their place.
A need for renewal as the previous meeting against the English, in the semi-final of the 2023 World Cup, ended in a narrow victory for the Springboks (16-15). The XV de la Rose for its part will see the return of Freddie Steward, who has not yet played a single test match this fall. Coach Steve Borthwick adapts to his opponent and relies on a back whose best asset is in the aerial game.
The match between England and South Africa will kick off this Saturday at 6:40 p.m. The match can be followed on BeIN Sports 1.