Rassie Erasmus has opted for a 7-1 bench split in the latest squad announcement from South Africa, as they prepare to take on Wales at the Principality Stadium. The head coach chose this particular ratio with his team's depth being one of their greatest assets going into the Autumn international.
South Africa's starting lineup boasts an impressive number of caps - 306 in total compared to Wales' matchday squad. In contrast, Erasmus has opted for a bench boasting a staggering 374 caps, including legendary lock Eben Etzebeth and hooker Johan Grobbelaar.
Eight personnel changes were made from the previous team that beat Ireland 24-13. Captain Siya Kolisi, flanker Ruan Nortje, fly-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, centre Damian de Allende, wing Canan Moodie, full-back Damian Willemse, number eight Jasper Wiese, and lock Jean Kleyn - rather than blind-side flanker Franco Mostert - are being retained.
Erasmus is pleased with the quality of his team despite several players missing out on the squad due to their club commitments. He has expressed confidence in the depth and balance of his team, expecting Wales to come out firing and be desperate to make a statement.
This latest move showcases Erasmus' willingness to rotate his players throughout the year and settle on established combinations, while also emphasizing the value he places on power and experience on his bench.
South Africa's starting lineup boasts an impressive number of caps - 306 in total compared to Wales' matchday squad. In contrast, Erasmus has opted for a bench boasting a staggering 374 caps, including legendary lock Eben Etzebeth and hooker Johan Grobbelaar.
Eight personnel changes were made from the previous team that beat Ireland 24-13. Captain Siya Kolisi, flanker Ruan Nortje, fly-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, centre Damian de Allende, wing Canan Moodie, full-back Damian Willemse, number eight Jasper Wiese, and lock Jean Kleyn - rather than blind-side flanker Franco Mostert - are being retained.
Erasmus is pleased with the quality of his team despite several players missing out on the squad due to their club commitments. He has expressed confidence in the depth and balance of his team, expecting Wales to come out firing and be desperate to make a statement.
This latest move showcases Erasmus' willingness to rotate his players throughout the year and settle on established combinations, while also emphasizing the value he places on power and experience on his bench.