The Springboks vs Australia clash on Saturday, 23 August 2025, is more than just another Rugby Championship fixture.
Springboks seek redemption after Ellis Park shock
The Springboks, South Africa’s national rugby team, lost 38–22 to the Wallabies at Ellis Park last weekend — Australia’s first win there since 1963.
Now, the Boks have a chance to redeem themselves in front of home fans at Cape Town Stadium.
This match is crucial because the Rugby Championship is played between four of the strongest rugby nations — South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and Argentina.
Each game counts, and after last weekend’s loss, the Boks need a victory to keep their campaign alive.
How to watch Springboks vs Australia live
Fans in South Africa can watch the game live on SuperSport Rugby.
Match details:
- Date: Saturday, 23 August 2025
- Venue: Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
- Kick-off: 17:10 local time (SAST)
Confirmed teams for the Test
Stand-in captain Jesse Kriel, who replaces the injured Siya Kolisi, admitted the team underperformed at Ellis Park:
“We definitely know what we didn’t get right last weekend. We’ve rectified that in training… The great thing about this sport is you get another chance, and that’s what we have got this weekend.”
Kriel also praised the Australians, saying they were among the toughest Wallaby teams he had faced:
“They have unbelievable athletes who can make magic on turnover ball. We are looking forward to the challenge.”
Springboks starting XV:
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.
Replacements: Marnus van der Merwe, Boan Venter, Wilco Louw, Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Kwagga Smith, Cobus Reinach, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
Australia starting XV:
15 Tom Wright, 14 Max Jorgensen, 13 Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, 12 Len Ikitau, 11 Corey Toole, 10 James O’Connor, 9 Nic White, 8 Rob Valetini, 7 Fraser McReight (c), 6 Tom Hooper, 5 Will Skelton, 4 Nick Frost, 3 Taniela Tupou, 2 Billy Pollard, 1 Tom Robertson.
Replacements: Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Angus Bell, Zane Nonggorr, Jeremy Williams, Nick Champion de Crespigny, Tate McDermott, Tane Edmed, Andrew Kellaway.
Springboks vs Australia predictions
Looking at recent form, the Wallabies’ comeback from 22–0 down to beat the Boks shows their growing confidence under coach Joe Schmidt. But playing in Cape Town, with passionate home support, could give South Africa the edge.
Key players to watch for South Africa:
- Jean-Luc du Preez, starting at No.8, has a big chance to impress.
- Handré Pollard, the experienced fly-half, will control the game.
- Cheslin Kolbe, back from injury, offers attacking spark.
Key players for Australia:
- Corey Toole, the speedy debutant, could cause trouble on the wing.
- Rob Valetini, returning at No.8, adds power in the forwards.
Prediction: Expect a tight contest, but the Springboks should bounce back with a narrow victory in Cape Town, driven by the need to keep their Rugby Championship hopes alive.
Final result: South Africa 27 – 18 Australia