This game is the first in a heavyweight encounter between South Africa and New Zealand in Bloemfontein. For the All Blacks to retain their Tri-Nations title a win here would be a huge step in the right direction.
In addition to being a Tri-Nations match, this game will determine who tops the IRB rankings. South Africa are coming into the match after a series win against the British & Irish Lions. The Lions provided very stern opposition against the Bokke and should have them firing. The All Blacks win last weekend against the Wallabies was scratchy and they’ll be looking for an improved performance.
The teams:
South Africa:
15 Frans Steyn,
14 JP Pietersen,
13 Jaque Fourie,
12 Jean de Villiers,
11 Bryan Habana,
10 Ruan Pienaar,
9 Fourie du Preez,
8 Pierre Spies,
7 Juan Smith,
6 Heinrich Brussow,
5 Victor Matfield,
4 Bakkies Botha,
3 John Smit (c),
2 Bismarck du Plessis,
1 Beast Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Danie Rossouw, 19 Ryan Kankowski, 20 Ricky Januarie, 21 Morne Steyn, 22 Wynand Olivier.
New Zealand:
15 Mils Muliaina,
14 Joe Rokocoko ,
13 Conrad Smith,
12 Ma’a Nonu,
11 Sitiveni Sivivatu,
10 Stephen Donald,
9 Brendon Leonard,
8 Rodney So’oialo,
7 Richie McCaw (c),
6 Jerome Kaino,
5 Isaac Ross,
4 Brad Thorn,
3 Neemia Tialata,
2 Andrew Hore,
1 Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: 16 Keven Mealamu, 17 Owen Franks, 18 Jason Eaton, 19 Kieran Read, 20 Piri Weepu, 21 Luke McAlister, 22 Cory Jane .
Venue: Vodacom Park, Bloemfontein
Kick-off: 17:00 (15:00 GMT)
Weather: Clear but cool.
Referee: Alain Rolland (Ireland)
Assistant referees: Nigel Owens (Wales), Tim Hayes (Wales)
TMO: Johann Meuwesen (South Africa)
