Pick of the sport: South Africa rotate heavily for Saturday’s clash against Italy, with Rassie Erasmus making 11 changes as the Boks aim to build depth on their European tour.
After their 32-17 win over France last weekend, the world champions face a tricky test in Turin against an Italy side full of confidence after shocking Australia. Handré Pollard returns to steer the attack, while Canan Moodie and Edwill van der Merwe bring pace out wide. Erasmus says he expects a fierce battle: “They’ve made huge strides and we’ll have to give everything to get the result we want.”
Rugby: Springboks Outgoing Tour
Saturday, 15 November
Italy vs South Africa – 14:40
Venue: Allianz Stadium, Turin
➜ South Africa’s Test side begin their two-match series in Kolkata on Friday with everything on the line – pride, points, and the World Test Championship mace. The Proteas haven’t won a Test in India in 15 years, and this time they face a motivated home side eager for revenge after losing two WTC finals.
Captain Temba Bavuma says his team is ready to silence critics: “We started the WTC cycle with the ambition of being in the final. We want to see where we measure up after four years.” With spinners set to dominate, patience and discipline will define the contest.
Cricket: 1st Test – India vs South Africa
Friday, 14 November
Play starts – 06:00 (SA time)
Venue: Eden Gardens, Kolkata
➜ Bafana face familiar foes Zambia in their 25th meeting, using the friendly as preparation for next year’s Afcon and World Cup qualifiers.
The teams share a deep rivalry stretching back to 1992, with Zambia holding the upper hand in head-to-heads. However, South Africa’s young core – led by Lyle Foster and Oswin Appollis – will look to assert dominance at home and build momentum after a mixed run of results.
International Friendly
Saturday, 15 November
South Africa vs Zambia – 15:00
Venue: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha
Pictured above: The Springboks.
Image source: @Springboks
