New Zealand All Blacks coach Davie Rennie has named a slightly adjusted squad for the second test match against South Africa’s Springboks, scheduled for this weekend in Cape Town. Following their opening victory at Ellis Park, the team will field three changes in the starting lineup, two of which stem from injury concerns.
Loosehead prop Ethan de Groot and lock Josh Lord are undergoing concussion protocols after a head collision late in the first test in Johannesburg, prompting their replacements. George Bower will start at loosehead prop, earning the role after an impressive second-half performance at Ellis Park, particularly in the scrum. At lock, Tupou Vaa’i returns to his primary position after featuring as a loose forward in the previous match. This shift allows Simon Parker, a teammate of Vaa’i at the Chiefs, to start at blindside flanker. The only other alteration comes on the left wing, with Leroy Carter replacing Josh Moorby, who moves to the bench.
In addition to these changes, Xavier Numia is included on the bench to provide loosehead prop cover, having recently appeared in a midweek game against the Lions. Patrick Tuipulotu also joins the reserves as cover at lock.
Rennie expressed cautious optimism ahead of the match, noting that both teams are expected to improve following the first test. “While we were happy with the win last week, I think both teams will be better this weekend,” he said. “We’ve played four tests this year and are still growing as a group. I’m really excited about the competition for places and the performances of the squad across the matches here in South Africa, and we’re really looking forward to this weekend.”
On the South African side, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has reverted to an earlier approach by naming his starting lineup well ahead of the match. The Springboks have made changes to their side as they prepare to regroup after the initial defeat. Notably, Siya Kolisi will return to the loose forward trio after missing the opening test with a hamstring injury. The starting lineup also includes halfback Cobus Reinach, fly-half Handre Pollard, and winger Ethan Hooker, all of whom were absent from the first test.
The second test marks a pivotal moment in this series, with both sides seeking to assert dominance in South African conditions. The All Blacks aim to build on their opening victory, while the Springboks look to leverage their home advantage and restored personnel.