Erasmus: Boks can’t be conservative

Rassie Erasmus says the Springboks will never catch up to other leading teams in world rugby unless they are willing to keep trying new things, writes CRAIG LEWIS in Johannesburg.

Rassie: Bismarck, Frans are injured

Rassie Erasmus doesn’t believe there were any nefarious forces that prevented Bismarck du Plessis and Frans Steyn from joining the Springbok squad ahead of the three-Test series against England, writes CRAIG LEWIS in Johannesburg.

Transformed Boks to take on England

The Springbok starting XV to face England at Ellis Park includes a record seven black Africans as well as three Test debutants.

Isiekwe in, Launchbury out for England

Nick Isiekwe will start at No 5 lock for England against the Springboks at Ellis Park on Saturday.

Preview: Wallabies vs Ireland (1st Test)

Ireland will be targeting a first win against the Wallabies in Australia since 1979 when the teams meet in Brisbane on Saturday, writes MARIETTE ADAMS.

Brown: Farrell a great leader

England fullback Mike Brown has hailed captain Owen Farrell ahead of their opening Test against the Springboks in Johannesburg on Saturday.

Kolisi leading the Bok change

History will be made on Thursday when Rassie Erasmus names Siya Kolisi to lead a Springbok starting side that includes at least six black African players.

Injuries force Ireland changes

The inclusion of South African hooker Rob Herring is one of six changes to Ireland’s starting lineup for Saturday’s opening Test against the Wallabies in Brisbane.

Wallabies back Reds rookies

Hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa and No 8 Caleb Tima will make their Test debuts after being named in the Wallabies’ starting lineup to face Ireland in Brisbane on Saturday.

Parra, Medard back for France

Morgan Parra will start at scrumhalf for France against the All Blacks in Auckland on Saturday.