Springbok prop Boan Venter. Image: Johann Meintjies/Gallo Images.
(The Post News)– An injury has forced the Springboks to change the lineup ahead of the Wallabies test. The Springboks ruled out Jan-Hendrik Wessels for Saturday’s Rugby Championship match against the Wallabies at Ellis Park.
Wessels sustained a minor injury during Wednesday’s training session. Team management confirmed they would not risk the young front-rower. They chose to make a precautionary change to the match-day squad instead.
Boan Venter, who earned his first Test cap against Georgia in Nelspruit, has been called up to replace Wessels on the bench. The 27-year-old loosehead prop has impressed at his domestic level and will provide experienced cover in the front row.
The decision underscores the Springbok coaching staff’s commitment to player welfare ahead of a demanding international schedule. Despite the adjustment, the squad remains well-prepared for a physical and high-stakes encounter with the Wallabies.
Saturday’s match marks a crucial opportunity for the Springboks to build momentum in the Rugby Championship and fine-tune combinations ahead of the year-end tour. The coaching team expressed confidence in Venter’s readiness to contribute effectively should he be called upon during the game.
Venter debuted in Tests against Georgia during the Castle Lager Incoming Series. He will join Bongi Mbonambi and Asenathi Ntlabakanye, who form the backup front row. This will be Venter’s first Castle Lager Rugby Championship match and also his first game against Australia.
The match kicks off at 17:10. SuperSport will broadcast the game live. Fans can watch it on TV or online. The teams are ready for a tough contest. Both sides have strong squads this season—expect a fast-paced and exciting game.