𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆:Fullback Willie le Roux has been ruled out of the Springboks’ Rugby Championship Test against the Wallabies in Cape Town on Saturday.

Fullback Willie le Roux has been ruled out of the Springboks’ Rugby Championship Test against the Wallabies in Cape Town on Saturday.

Aphelele Fassi will wear the No 15 jersey after Le Roux was forced to withdraw due to a niggle.

The 36-year-old, who became the eighth Bok to feature in 100 Tests earlier this season, suffered the injury at training earlier this week.

Fassi started last week’s Test against the Wallabies at Ellis Park.

SPRINGBOKS – 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Canan Moodie, 13 Jesse Kriel (c), 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Cheslin Kolbe, 10 Handré Pollard, 9 Grant Williams, 8 Jean-Luc du Preez, 7 Franco Mostert, 6 Marco van Staden, 5 Ruan Nortje, 4 RG Snyman, 3 Thomas du Toit, 2 Malcolm Marx, 1 Ox Nche.
Bench: 16 Marnus van der Merwe, 17 Boan Venter, 18 Wilco Louw, 19 Eben Etzebeth, 20 Lood de Jager, 21 Kwagga Smith, 22 Cobus Reinach, 23 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.

Le Roux, who has over 90 Test caps to his name, has been a key figure in South Africa’s setup over the years. Known for his spatial awareness, counter-attacking prowess, and vision under the high ball, his leadership and versatility are qualities the Boks will sorely miss against a dangerous Australian outfit.

While the extent of his injury has not been made fully public, team doctors remain optimistic that he will be available for the following Test, depending on his progress during rehabilitation.

In Le Roux’s absence, Damian Willemse is expected to slot into the fullback role, having worn the No.15 jersey several times before. Alternatively, Aphelele Fassi could also be in line for a call-up, offering a more natural fit in the position but with far less Test experience.

This setback adds to the selection headache for Erasmus, who is already managing several players’ workloads in a jam-packed international season. The Boks, however, remain confident in their depth and will look to maintain their strong home record in Cape Town.

Kickoff for the highly anticipated clash is set for 17:05 local time, with fans eager to see how the Springboks adapt without one of their key backline generals.