Springboks make two late changes for 2nd test against New Zealand

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AP) — The South African rugby team, the Springboks, announced on Friday that they had withdrawn backs Handré Pollard and Kurt-Lee Arendse from the upcoming second test against New Zealand. Pollard had sustained an ankle injury during a training session on Wednesday and was granted until Friday to pass a fitness test. In his place, the team promoted Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu to the No. 10 jersey and brought Manie Libbok into the reserves for the match scheduled for Saturday at Cape Town Stadium.

New Zealand had already secured a victory in the first test, with a score of 33-16, in a previous match held at Ellis Park on the previous Saturday, placing them at a 1-0 advantage in the four-test series. Pollard had been selected ahead of Feinberg-Mngomezulu in the previous week due to his familiarity with the local conditions and his proven ability to manage high-pressure situations.

Assistant coach Mzwandile Stick praised Pollard for his honesty in informing the team about his injury, noting that it demonstrated leadership qualities and a sense of humility. However, it was not immediately clear how long Pollard might be out of the team. Arendse was substituted in the right wing position, with Cheslin Kolbe returning to the lineup after recovering from injuries suffered during the previous test.

The late changes resulted in South Africa making only two alterations to their starting lineup. The team added Siya Kolisi as their captain and Ethan Hooker as their left winger. Kolisi, who has been sidelined with hamstring issues for the past two months, addressed reporters on Friday, expressing his commitment to the team and acknowledging the mental challenges that come with dealing with injuries.

He emphasized that the real battle lies in maintaining focus and determination despite the obstacles, and urged his teammates to prioritize their collective goals over individual aspirations.