Rassie set to ring changes in Brisbane

It could be a hint of panic‚ but is more likely a continuation of his desire to build depth and experience, that Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus is set to ring the changes against the Wallabies in Brisbane this weekend.

With the Boks losing 32-19 to the Pumas in Mendoza in their last outing‚ Erasmus would be within his rights to make changes based on performances.

But he has remained steadfast that every detail (injuries notwithstanding) has been thought out and that there is a long-term plan to his team selections, with a view to next year’s World Cup.

Indications from Bok training are that Erasmus could make up to half a dozen changes from the side that lost to the Pumas at a venue where SA have traditionally struggled.

Australia at the Suncorp Stadium presents a very specific challenge on a pitch where the game tends to be faster.

Since the stadium was completed in time for the 2003 World Cup, the Wallabies have played the Boks seven times at the Suncorp, winning six of the encounters.

They won by an average score of 27-15‚ which included their record 49-0 win over SA in 2006.

Over their previous 85 meetings at all venues‚ the Boks won by an average score of 19-18‚ underlining how much Suncorp benefits the Wallabies.

In 26 Tests at Suncorp‚ Australia have won 19 and drawn one, with an average winning score of 31-18.

Given the perception of the pitch being suited to attacking rugby‚ flyhalf Elton Jantjies is set for a third start under Erasmus‚ in what is forecast to be decent weather conditions‚ although there could be some light showers before kickoff.

Jantjies’ two previous starts in the Erasmus era were played in torrential rain in Washington against Wales and in Cape Town against England.

The Boks lost both matches and Jantjies struggled.

Handre Pollard has been erratic with the boot in the Rugby Championship‚ which adds to the argument for Jantjies’ recall.

Fit-again Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel could also start in the midfield with Andre Esterhuizen and Lukhanyo Am dropping out of this clash while Cheslin Kolbe is likely to be introduced to Test rugby from the bench.

The pack might see an overhaul too, with Steven Kitshoff coming in at loosehead and Bongi Mbonambi at hooker for Tendai Mtawarira and Malcolm Marx respectively.

Erasmus has more than likely planned to rest Mtawarira and Marx before next week’s encounter against the All Blacks in Wellington.

Pieter-Steph du Toit is set to reprise his role as blindside flank, with Siya Kolisi returning to openside and Francois Louw dropping out.

Du Toit adds to the lineout options with Eben Etzebeth and Franco Mostert set to continue in the second row.