The Springboks have assembled in Johannesburg with a group of 43 players as Rassie Erasmus readies his side for a demanding August. The world champions open their next block away to Argentina in Buenos Aires on Saturday, 8 August, then turn their attention to New Zealand. It is his strongest available group of the season so far.
Ten experienced Boks return from injury, a real boost for the coaching staff. Lock Eben Etzebeth is back alongside Lood de Jager, while Franco Mostert adds cover across the second and back rows. Captain Siya Kolisi also rejoins the group after his own layoff, deepening the loose forward options for the weeks ahead.
The Test in Buenos Aires carries weight. Argentina have troubled South Africa in recent seasons, and Erasmus has released five players to their franchises for club fixtures, a sign that he is managing minutes across a long calendar. The Pumas will back themselves at home, so the Boks need a clean start on the road. Selection questions remain at flyhalf and outside centre.
Then comes the Rivalry series against the All Blacks. South Africa host New Zealand at Ellis Park on 22 August and at Cape Town Stadium on 29 August, before a third meeting at FNB Stadium on 5 September and a fourth in Baltimore on 12 September. Four matches against the old enemy will stretch every layer of the squad. Home advantage at altitude in Johannesburg could prove decisive in the opener.
Where to bet: South African supporters can back the Springboks at licensed local bookmakers such as Betway and Hollywoodbets, with prices in ZAR for the Argentina Test and the New Zealand series. Compare match, handicap and try scorer markets before kickoff for better value. 18+. Gamble responsibly.
