South Africa vs New Zealand: Fourth Test Live – Lineups, Score Updates and Rugby Championship Showdown
The Springboks and the All Blacks renew rugby’s greatest rivalry this weekend as they clash in the fourth Test of their 2024 series. With the series finely poised, both nations have named strong starting XVs and impactful benches for what promises to be a decisive encounter at Ellis Park.
South Africa Team News: Experience and Power in the Pack
Head coach Rassie Erasmus has selected a blend of World Cup winners and rising stars for the home side. The backline features Aphelele Fassi at fullback, with Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse on the wings. Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel form a formidable midfield partnership, while Manie Libbok and Cobus Reinach pull the strings at half-back.
The forward pack is anchored by a world-class front row of Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, and Frans Malherbe. Eben Etzebeth and RG Snyman provide immense power in the second row, while the loose trio of Pieter-Steph du Toit, Kwagga Smith, and Jasper Wiese offers a potent mix of breakdown threat and ball-carrying ability. Captain Siya Kolisi leads the side from openside flanker.
Springboks Replacements
The “Bomb Squad” remains a tactical weapon. Bongi Mbonambi, Gerhard Steenekamp, and Vincent Koch provide front-row reinforcement, with Ben-Jason Dixon and Elrigh Louw covering the engine room and back row. Grant Williams, Handré Pollard, and Lukhanyo Am offer versatile backline options off the bench.
New Zealand Team News: Youthful Exuberance Meets Veteran Class
Scott Robertson’s All Blacks lineup showcases an exciting new generation. Will Jordan starts at fullback, supported by Sevu Reece and Mark Telea on the flanks. The midfield pairs Jordie Barrett with Anton Lienert-Brown, while Beauden Barrett directs play at first five-eighth alongside halfback Cortez Ratima.
The forward pack is spearheaded by hooker Codie Taylor and props Ethan de Groot and Tamaiti Williams. Scott Barrett captains the side from lock alongside Tupou Vaa’i. A dynamic loose forward trio of Ethan Blackadder, Sam Cane, and Wallace Sititi completes the starting XV.
All Blacks Replacements
New Zealand’s bench packs significant punch. Asafo Aumua and George Bower bolster the front row, with Josh Lord and Samipeni Finau providing forward cover. TJ Perenara brings vast experience at halfback, while Damian McKenzie and Billy Proctor offer attacking spark in the backs.
Match Context and Stakes
This fourth Test serves as the series decider after both teams claimed victories in the opening three matches. The Springboks will rely on their trademark set-piece dominance and aerial game, while the All Blacks aim to impose a high-tempo, offload-heavy style. The breakdown battle between Kolisi, Du Toit, and Wiese against Cane, Blackadder, and Sititi will likely determine the outcome.
Kick-off is scheduled for 17:00 local time (15:00 BST) at Ellis Park, Johannesburg. Follow our live text commentary for minute-by-minute updates, analysis, and reaction throughout the match.
Key Battles to Watch
- Scrum: Nche/Marx/Malherbe vs De Groot/Taylor/Williams
- Lineout: Etzebeth/Snyman vs Barrett/Vaa’i
- Half-back duel: Libbok/Reinach vs B. Barrett/Ratima
- Midfield collision: De Allende/Kriel vs J. Barrett/Lienert-Brown
- Aerial contest: Fassi/Kolbe/Arendse vs Jordan/Reece/Telea
Stay tuned for live score updates, try alerts, and post-match analysis as two rugby heavyweights collide in the latest chapter of sport’s most storied rivalry.
