Du Toit back as Coetzee makes two Springbok changes

MILAN – Pieter Steph du Toit returns from concussion to the South Africa starting XV as Bongi Mbonambi makes his first start for the Springboks after coach Allister Coetzee made two changes for his team to face Italy on Saturday.

Flanker Du Toit was forced to sit out last week’s 18-17 victory over France in Paris after suffering concussion in the record 38-3 humbling by Ireland a week earlier.

Line-out specialist Du Toit comes back into the team in place of Siya Kolisi, who is unavailable due to the birth of his second child, South Africa said in a press release.

Mbonambi makes his first start after 12 caps off the bench in place of Malcolm Marx, who has a shoulder injury.

“We decided not to risk Malcolm, which means Bongi will get a well-deserved first start in the No.2 jersey,” said Coetzee.

“Bongi has worked hard and I have no doubt he will grab this opportunity with both hands.”

Chiliboy Ralepelle replaces Mbonambi on the bench with uncapped back Warrick Gelant preferred to Damian de Allende amongst the replacements.

“Warrick is in good form and his work-rate during training has been impressive,” added Coetzee.

“I know he will add value and I am very excited for the possibility of seeing him in action.”

Team (15-1)

Andries Coetzee; Dillyn Leyds, Jesse Kriel, Francois Venter, Courtnall Skosan; Handre Pollard, Ross Cronje; Duane Vermeulen, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Francois Louw; Lood de Jager, Eben Etzebeth (capt); Wilco Louw, Bongi Mbonambi, Tendai Mtawarira

Replacements: Chiliboy Ralepelle, Steven Kitshoff, Trevor Nyakane, Franco Mostert, Dan du Preez, Rudy Paige, Elton Jantjies, Warrick Gelant. – Nampa-AFP

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