South Africa's coach Rassie Erasmus has predicted that the upcoming third Test against New Zealand will be as intense, if not more so, than the previous two matches. The four-Test series is currently level at 1-1, following South Africa's victory in the second Test.
Erasmus has continued his trend of making late team changes, with six players missing from the initial starting XV announced for the second Test. World Rugby regulations typically require medical dispensation for changes within 48 hours of kick-off, but this independently administered competition allows Erasmus to make such alterations, including switching his entire front row before the second Test.
New Zealand, under head coach Dave Rennie, has won the try count across the first two Tests, leading 9-4. However, the All Blacks face a historical challenge, as they have never won a multi-Test series in South Africa when the hosts have secured one of the opening two Tests.
Erasmus unveiled his side for the third Test early on Monday, stating, "We know how it felt after the first match in Johannesburg and such a result really galvanises a team." He added, "This game is going to be equally, if not more intense than the last two."