La Rochelle’s Moerat replaces Etzebeth for the Boks

The world champions start their November tour a week before facing France at the Stade de France on November 13.

The regulars return

Without the injured Cheslin Kolbe, André Esterhuizen, Eben Etzebeth and Handré Pollard, Erasmus has brought back most of the regulars who beat New Zealand three times this summer. Siya Kolisi captains the side, and nine 2023 world champions start, L’Équipe notes.

Moerat back in green

Moerat joined La Rochelle from the Stormers this summer and has started both Top 14 games he has played. His most recent Test was on July 12, 2025, also against Italy. He partners Ruan Nortje.

A six-two bench

Without Esterhuizen, who can cover centre and back row, Erasmus reverts to six forwards and two backs on the bench, with Grant Williams and Manie Libbok covering the backline. None of the six uncapped players in the squad made the 23.

The team

Willemse; Arendse, Kriel, De Allende, Hooker; Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Van den Berg; Wiese, P-S du Toit, Kolisi; Nortje, Moerat; T du Toit, Marx, Nche.

Replacements: Wessels, Steenekamp, Louw, De Jager, Hanekom, De Villiers, Williams, Libbok.

South Africa lost their last game 42-38 in Australia in late September. Kick-off in Turin is at 12.40pm (French time) on Saturday.