The Springboks' upcoming clash with Argentina is a pivotal moment in the team's preparation for the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series against the All Blacks. With Rassie Erasmus at the helm, the coach has hinted at significant changes to the starting lineup, aiming to provide valuable minutes to players who have been on the sidelines. This strategic move is particularly intriguing, as it could shape the team's dynamics and performance in the upcoming series.
One of the most notable changes is the potential inclusion of Quan Horn at fly-half. Horn's versatility and playmaking skills have been recognized by the coaching staff, and his selection could be a game-changer. However, the question remains whether his main position, full-back, is the right fit for the team's current needs. Aphelele Fassi, who has been struggling with form post-injury, might need more match minutes before the All Blacks series, which could impact Horn's selection.
Ethan Hooker, who missed the tail-end of the Sharks season due to injury, is another player who could benefit from the Argentina game. His return to the Green and Gold last year was impressive, and Erasmus is eager to see him feature in the Bok midfield. However, with other midfielders in need of minutes, Hooker might find himself on the wing.
Canan Moodie, who can interchange with Hooker, is another player to watch. The Bulls utility back has been battling illness and injury, limiting his involvement. Jesse Kriel has been a standout in the Nations Championship, but rotation is key to the Bok coaching set-up, making Moodie a strong contender for a starting spot.
Andre Esterhuizen, who featured in the centres against the Baa-Baas and came off the bench in the back-row against England, is another player in the mix. His cheekbone injury has recovered, and Erasmus hinted that many injured players would get a run-out against Los Pumas. Esterhuizen's inclusion makes sense in that regard.
Kurt-Lee Arendse, Edwill van der Merwe, and Cheslin Kolbe are the likely candidates for the 11th position. Jaco Williams has been released to the Sharks, leaving these three as the remaining options. Van der Merwe has a strong case, having only played against Scotland, while Arendse featured against England and Wales. Erasmus and his team have a tough decision to make.
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who is fit again and hasn't played since May, is a strong contender for the 10th position. His selection would be a shock, but his return to full fitness makes him a strong candidate. Morne van den Berg, who spent the entire 2025 season with the Springboks, is another player who could benefit from the Argentina game, despite not being the most popular scrum-half among fans.
Cam Hanekom, who missed the entirety of last year due to injury, is primed for a breakout season. The Bulls man has an incredible skill-set and is bound to have a long career in the Springboks jersey. He started on the side of the scrum against England and is predicted to get the nod in the number eight jersey against the Pumas.
Ben-Jason Dixon, who impressed with his cameos off the bench, is another player to watch. Pieter-Steph du Toit was in fine form in July, and Dixon could well be the frontrunner to replace him. Siya Kolisi, the team's captain, is expected to return to the starting lineup after missing the Nations Championship matches due to injury.
Lood de Jager and Eben Etzebeth, the second most capped lock pairing in Springboks history, are predicted to pack down together in the engine room. De Jager, who has had a troublesome 2026, and Etzebeth, who has barely played due to suspension and injury, are in dire need of minutes.
Thomas du Toit, who started the opening Nations Championship match against England, is expected to return to the starting XV as part of the rotation. Jan-Hendrik Wessels, who has come off the bench in his last 10 appearances, is predicted to get the nod for the starting number two jersey. Boan Venter, who was lacking game time, is another player who could benefit from the Argentina game.
The bench is also an area of interest, with a traditional 5-3 split on the cards. Johan Grobbelaar is likely to be the back-up hooker, while Ntuthuko Mchunu is bound to feature due to Ox Nche's absence. Wilco Louw and Sadie are the likely candidates for the replacement tighthead role, with Tshituka and Elrigh Louw providing back-line cover.
In summary, the Springboks' clash with Argentina is a strategic move by Erasmus to provide valuable minutes to players who have been on the sidelines. The starting lineup and bench are both areas of interest, with several players vying for a spot. The outcome of this game could shape the team's dynamics and performance in the upcoming series against the All Blacks.
