Playing selector: Who will start for the Boks in first Test against All Blacks?

The Springboks have concluded their pre-All Blacks preparations with a challenging victory over Argentina, setting the stage for their upcoming Test series against New Zealand. Coach Rassie Erasmus is toying with various selections for the first Test, scheduled to take place at Ellis Park next weekend. In this account, we will explore the potential options for each position.

Fullback: Damian Willemse is the clear choice for the No 15 jersey, given his defensive prowess and attacking ability. Aphelele Fassi has been involved in recent matches, but he is unlikely to start.

Wings: Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse, both proven Test performers, are expected to start at the wing positions. Ethan Hooker, who stands taller, would be a consideration, as would Edwill van der Merwe, who has yet to feature at the highest level.

Centres: The combination of Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel remains the preferred choice for the No 1 and No 2 positions. Andre Esterhuizen may be left on the bench, with Canan Moodie serving as a backup option.

Flyhalf: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will return from injury, though he appeared somewhat rusty against the Pumas. Handre Pollard, the experienced Test star, is likely to take the No 10 position, while Manie Libbok could serve as an alternative.

Scrumhalf: The decision between Grant Williams and Cobus Reinach will hinge on which player starts and who plays off the bench. Morne van den Berg and Herschel Jantjies are unlikely to see action in the first Test.

Eighthman: Cameron Hanekom, while having a stellar outing against the Pumas, will also have to sit on the sidelines for the first Test. Jasper Wiese is the favored No 8, known for his versatility and experience.

Flanks: Pieter-Steph du Toit will wear the No 7 jersey, while the choice for openside flanker depends on the severity of Siya Kolisi's hamstring injury. Paul de Villiers and Deon Fourie are potential contenders, with Marco van Staden expected to fill a role on the bench.

Locks: Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager are likely to start, but Ruan Nortje has proven himself capable at Test level and could be given a chance. Cobus Wiese may have to settle for a bench role. Franco Mostert, who has not featured this year, is yet to be considered.

Props: Thomas du Toit and Ox Nche, if fit, are expected to start at the No 1 and No 3 positions. Gerhard Steenekamp could be the No 1 if alternatives are unavailable, with Zachary Porthen or Carlu Sadie expected to impact the game from the bench. Boan Venter will not feature in this match.

Hooker: Malcolm Marx will wear the No 2 jersey, and he could play a crucial role throughout the match. Johan Grobbelaar has a case to be the back-up on the bench, and Fourie could also be considered.