South Africa Reach for Redemption in Wellington Decider

The Springboks head to Sky Stadium in Wellington on Saturday, 13 September, intent on overturning last weekend’s 24-17 defeat to hosts New Zealand at Eden Park and keeping their Rugby Championship defence alive.

With the Freedom Cup also on the line, the Rugby World Cup champions know the margins will again be razor-thin against an All Blacks side revitalised after ending a four-match losing run to South Africa.

Utility back Damian Willemse expects a bruising contest, as he recently told a local publication: “We are expecting a physical rugby game … It will be a Test match of small margins again.”

He added that the Boks have parked last week’s disappointment and will “play positively” to secure a win.

Key Springboks have been challenged to ignite a response: hooker Malcolm Marx needs a cleaner line-out and his trademark menace over the ball. Pieter-Steph du Toit’s defensive bite and breakdown presence will also be vital against New Zealand’s midfield threats.

Meanwhile, All Blacks’ Scott Robertson has refreshed his matchday squad, with bold calls including elevating Leroy Carter to wing and handing Noah Hotham a start at scrum-half, while Samisoni Taukei’aho replaces Codie Taylor at hooker.

The team will also look to reinforce their momentum and tighten their line-out after pressure in Auckland.

World rankings add extra spice: New Zealand remain in the top spot, Ireland have edged back into second and South Africa sit in third.

For the Boks, this weekend is about far more than numbers: it’s a full-team push to restore precision, reclaim the Freedom Cup and keep their title bid alive at the Cake Tin.