Print

Mail

wiki links

Johann Muller to captain Springboks against All Blacks

Lock Johann Muller will become South Africa's fourth captain in four Tri-Nations Tests this season when he leads a Springbok team with four changes against the All Blacks at Christchurch on Saturday.

Muller takes over from Bobby Skinstad, who broke his rib during South Africa's 25-17 loss to Australia in Sydney last weekend.

John Smit and Victor Matfield led the Springboks in previous Tri-Nations matches at home.

Skinstad's place at No. 8 has gone to Jacques Cronje while Muller will be partnered in the second row by Albert van den Berg, who replaces the injured Johan Ackermann.

Bismarck Du Plessis replaces Gary Botha at hooker, joining his brother, prop Jannie Du Plessis, in a South African Test starting lineup for the first time.

Jaco Pretorius will start on the left wing while JP Pietersen moves from winger to fullback in place of Bevan Fontein. Derick Hougaard has retained his place at flyhalf, despite a strong challenge from Peter Grant.

On Tuesday, New Zealand announced seven changes to their team for the match after a surprise 20-15 loss to Australia.

South Africa

JP Pietersen, Breyton Paulse, Waylon Murray, Wynand Olivier, Jaco Pretorius, Derick Hougaard, Ruan Pienaar; Jacques Cronje, Pedrie Wannenburg, Wikus van Heerden, Johann Muller captain, Albert van den Berg, Jannie du Plessis, Bismarck du Plessis, CJ van der Linde. Reserves: Gary Botha, Eddie Andrews, Gerrie Britz, Hilton Lobberts, Michael Claassens, Peter Grant, Tonderai Chavhanga
This story has been viewed 927 times.