South Africa Springboks Make Fly-Half Decision for England Clash
UKPulse Sport Desk
Eben Etzebeth returns to the South Africa starting side after suspension, while Manie Libbok takes over at fly half for the Nations Championship match against England.
- Eben Etzebeth makes an instant return to the South Africa starting side
- Manie Libbok is preferred to Handre Pollard at fly half
- South Africa face England in the Nations Championship on Saturday
The South Africa Springboks have announced their team to face England in their Nations Championship opener, with Eben Etzebeth making an immediate return to the starting side after suspension.
Etzebeth was handed a long ban after being sent off for an eye gouge in his last Test against Wales, and has featured only once since for the Sharks in the United Rugby Championship.
He will partner Ruan Nortje in the second row, with Rassie Erasmus opting for a familiar-looking side full of World Cup winners.
With Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu sidelined by injury, Manie Libbok takes over at fly half, ahead of Handre Pollard. Cheslin Kolbe and Damian Willemse win their 50th caps in the back three.
Siya Kolisi captains the side, with Erasmus looking forward to an encounter with an England side arriving at Ellis Park on a run of four consecutive Six Nations defeats.
Why this matters: The match between South Africa and England has implications for the UK sports industry, with many British fans following the rugby team. The outcome of the match may also impact the UK's international rugby rankings.
What this means for you: What this means for you: As a rugby fan, the match between South Africa and England is likely to be of interest. The outcome of the game may also impact the UK's international rugby rankings.