Springboks Gear Up for Aerial Showdown with Wallabies at Ellis Park

The Rugby Championship returns to Johannesburg this weekend, and Ellis Park is set for a clash that promises both brute force and high-flying drama. Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus is preparing his side for what he believes will be a ruthless aerial battle against Joe Schmidt’s Wallabies on Saturday.

A rivalry with altitude

The Boks are chasing their fifth straight win over Australia, but Erasmus knows Schmidt’s men will not be easy prey. The Wallabies arrive with momentum from their spirited finish against the British and Irish Lions and, according to Erasmus, are likely to push South Africa in areas the Boks usually dominate.

“Australia’s loose forwards are impressive, their scrum is strong too,” Erasmus said, “but at high altitude, I expect more of an aerial game. That’s where the contest will be fierce.”

Ellis Park’s thin air often favours long, hanging kicks — a tactic both teams are expected to exploit. Fans can expect plenty of box kicks, contestable high balls and counterattacks.

New wing, same ambition

With Cheslin Kolbe sidelined by a minor knee injury, Edwill van der Merwe steps onto the right wing. Erasmus has praised the Bulls speedster’s tireless work rate in training and recent matches, highlighting his ability to nullify Australia’s kicking threats and punish them with pace when space opens up.

“Edwill will be key in turning those aerial contests into scoring chances,” Erasmus noted.

Mentorship meets mind games

Saturday’s match carries a personal subplot. Erasmus once worked under Schmidt, the man credited with transforming Ireland into a rugby powerhouse. Facing his former mentor adds a layer of intrigue.

“Joe is detail-oriented and very competitive,” Erasmus said. “He knows exactly what he wants from his players, and that can make them dangerous under pressure.”

Rotation with intent

Erasmus continues his rotation strategy, naming 18 World Cup winners in the 23-man squad. Grant Williams starts at scrumhalf, with Cobus Reinach on the bench. Faf de Klerk and Jaden Hendrikse are in line for future games, keeping competition in the No.9 jersey fierce.

All three, Erasmus insists, are performing at a level that ensures whoever wears the green and gold will be up to the task.

The bigger picture

South African fans have seen the Wallabies try to disrupt the Boks’ rhythm before, but Schmidt’s Australia will bring a blend of physicality and precision that could force South Africa to adapt quickly. With altitude, tactical kicking, and two coaches who know each other’s methods, Ellis Park could host one of the most strategically intriguing Tests in recent years.

Kick-off is set for Saturday afternoon, and the roar of Joburg’s rugby faithful will be waiting to lift the Boks sky-high.

Source:SABC Sport 

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