{
  "id": 2192876,
  "title": "Erasmus adopts precautionary approach for Kolisi’s return",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/20/erasmus-adopts-precautionary-approach-for-kolisis-return",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-20T17:48:50.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "SABC News",
    "slug": "sabc-news",
    "url": "https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/siya-kolisi-on-the-bench-for-saturdays-test-against-all-blacks/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has opted for a cautious approach regarding the return of captain Siya Kolisi for Saturday's opening test against the All Blacks. Despite being able to field the Bok leader, Erasmus decided to err on the side of caution, prioritizing player safety for the remainder of the four-test series. Pieter Steph Du Toit will lead the team, while Paul De Villiers drops back to the flank.\n\nThe series of potentially demanding matches in Johannesburg, Orlando, and Baltimore also played a role in Erasmus' decision. In a statement, Erasmus explained, \"It is who’s still standing when you get to Orlando and then Baltimore, Siya is the same. Siya probably could have played but risking him this weekend and then you get to match three of the series and then you have a lot of walking wounded so on those two that’s the thought process.\"\n\nEben Etzebeth will start at lock, with Grant Williams and Sacha Feinberg Mngomezulu forming the halfback pairing. Cobus Reinach and Manie Libbok will provide cover on the bench, while Handre Pollard will be left out of the squad. Erasmus emphasized the importance of starting the series with a win, stating, \"We just think of keeping guys fresh. I’m sure by round 3, which will be the most important match, there will be another 6 or 7 injuries in each camp. So, managing players game time is very important, but obviously, if you can hit the first blow, we lost first tests before and recovered, but it would always be better to win the first one.\"",
  "summary": "Erasmus says a winning start to the series is vital.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}