Former Blitzbok and Stormers star Cheslin Kolbe will make his first start for the Springboks when they face Australia in Port Elizabeth on Saturday (5.05pm).
Kolbe, who made his debut for the Springboks off the bench against Australia in South Africa’s 23-18 away defeat earlier in the Rugby Championship, is one of two first-time starters in the team.
The other one is another Capetonian in No.8 Sikhumbuzo Notshe.
But all eyes will be on the little magician, who in his second match intercepted a ball after coming off the bench to score a runaway try that would ultimately pave the way for South Africa’s 36-34 win over New Zealand a week after making his debut.
Of his inclusion, coach Rassie Erasmus says:
“Cheslin has been very impressive since he joined the squad a few weeks ago and now he gets a deserved opportunity to start in a big Test."
Kolbe, who moved to Toulouse in France at the end of last season, says he never gave up on his dream of playing for the Springboks.
The 24-year-old says: “I always told myself that I will never give up the goal and the dream to wear the Green and Gold jersey.
“And I think God’s timing is always the best timing in life and I just kept on working hard and tried to play the best rugby that I could.”
He adds: “International rugby is definitely a step up from where I’ve played.
“I’m still learning and finding my feet within the team, but the teammates around me make it much easier.”
Springboks v Wallabies
Rugby Championship at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Saturday at 5.05pm.