Boks forced into fullback change

August 22, 2025 72

Springbok coach, Rassie Erasmus, has been forced to replace injured Bok centurion Willie le Roux with Aphelele Fassi at fullback for the second Rugby Championship Test against Australia in Cape Town on Saturday.

Le Roux, who became the eighth player in South African rugby history to feature in 100 Tests earlier this season, suffered a niggle at training earlier this week and has not responded to treatment.

This prompted Erasmus to draft Fassi straight into the starting line-up.

Fassi started last week’s Test against the Wallabies in Johannesburg, where the Springboks went down 38-22, making this his second appearance in a row against the Wallabies.

“It’s unfortunate that Willie picked up a niggle this week in training. But he’s been working so closely with Fassi, and we all know how talented Fassi is, so I’m confident he’ll do a great job.” said Bok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick.

“Obviously, it’s disappointing for Willie, I know how much he wanted to play in Cape Town with his family here. But I have no doubt Fassi will step up, like he has over the last few years,” Stick added.

The #Springboks team to face Australia in Cape Town tomorrow 🇿🇦#ForeverGreenForeverGold pic.twitter.com/WjKL6gL6K5

— Springboks (@Springboks) August 22, 2025

Squad update: Aphelele Fassi will start at fullback against the Wallabies on Saturday following the withdrawal of Willie le Roux due to a niggle 🔀#Springboks #ForeverGreenForeverGold

— Springboks (@Springboks) August 22, 2025