The Rugby Championship is back.
The southern hemisphere’s Test-match showpiece returns to regular programming this year, with a full 12-game calendar that will be played across August and September under the “mini tour” format.
That means that each team faces two away games against one country, two home games against another, and then both a home and away contest against their closest regional rival.
The tournament will also trial several law variations, including the return of the full red card and reduced time limits for conversions.
Read on as we bring you the latest team news below and look ahead to the Round 1 clashes.
Saturday, August 10
Australia vs. South Africa, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, 2.45pm AEST [4.45pm NZT, 6.45am RSA, 1.45am ARG]
Australia:
South Africa:
15 – Willie le Roux, 14 – Cheslin Kolbe, 13 – Jesse Kriel, 12 – Damian de Allende, 11 – Kurt-Lee Arendse, 10 – Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 – Cobus Reinach, 8 – Elrigh Louw, 7 – Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 – Siya Kolisi (captain), 5 – RG Snyman, 4 – Eben Etzebeth, 3 – Frans Malherbe, 2 – Bongi Mbonambi, 1 – Ox Nche
Replacements: 16 – Malcolm Marx, 17 – Gerhard Steenekamp, 18 – Vincent Koch, 19 – Ben-Jason Dixon, 20 – Marco van Staden, 21 – Kwagga Smith, 22 – Grant Williams, 23 – Handré Pollard
Team news: Utility back Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will start at flyhalf for the Springboks against the Wallabies, with veteran Handre Pollard on the bench as their Rugby Championship campaign begins in Brisbane. Feinberg-Mngomezulu has become a quick fan-favourite since his debut against Wales earlier this year, marking a remarkable rise from playing provincial rugby just a year ago. Siya Kolisi will captain the side, while RG Snyman starts at 5 in the absence of injured Franco Mostert.
Prediction: It’ll be a tight one, but the Boks will take it from the Aussies by a try, much like in Paris.
New Zealand vs. Argentina, Sky Stadium, Wellington, 5.05pm AEST [7.05pm NZ, 9.05am SA, 4.05am ARG]
New Zealand:
Argentina:
Team news:
Prediction: