Boks rest two stalwarts as they prepare for 'big challenge' against the Wallabies

Damian de Allende and Pieter-Steph du Toit have been released from South Africa’s squad to face the Wallabies in Perth this coming weekend.

The two Springbok stalwarts played critical roles during their side’s 3-1 Greatest Rivalry Series win over the All Blacks, but coach Rassie Erasmus has decided to rest both players, with sufficient squad cover for Sunday’s match.

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The clash comes after a gruelling series against the All Blacks, and Springbok skipper Siya Kolisi expects the Wallabies to provide a unique challenge.

“You always adjust for each team, but our core values are going to remain the same. Australia is completely different to New Zealand, so we’ll have to readjust certain things. It’s going to be a big challenge.”

Asked how the players were feeling after the long journey from the USA to Australia, where they are currently based in Terrigal, north of Sydney, before travelling to Perth next Thursday, Kolisi said: “It’s been a long journey, but it was a great success in the USA, and being here in Australia now and preparing for this game is really important.

“It’s a team we’ve had some tough battles against, but training has been going well this week, and it’s good being here in Terrigal. We’ve also seen a lot of South Africans coming out here to support us, which is great.”

The match next Sunday kicks off at 11:45 (SA time).

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Damian de Allende Pieter-Steph du Toit Siya Kolisi Springboks Wallabies