Australia vs Springboks: Preview and Predictions

Australia take on the Springboks in a one-off international Test at Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday, 27 September 2026.

The Wallabies head into the clash with plenty of confidence after going unbeaten across their last five Tests, including wins over Italy and Japan and a 27-21 victory over Argentina before drawing 28-28 with the Pumas in Mendoza. However, they face a major step up against the reigning world champions.

South Africa arrive in Perth after an impressive 2026 campaign that saw them beat New Zealand 43-28 in Baltimore to secure a 3-1 series victory in the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry. Rassie Erasmus has made 13 changes to his starting XV for this Test, giving several players an opportunity to stake their claim ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Why This Match Matters So Much  

This Australia vs Springboks clash is more than another international Test. With the 2027 Rugby World Cup being staged in Australia, both sides can use the fixture as valuable preparation for next year’s tournament.

The Wallabies will be keen to measure themselves against one of the world’s leading sides after a positive start under head coach Les Kiss. Australia have won four of their last five matches, with their only other result being the draw against Argentina in Mendoza.

The Springboks, meanwhile, have an opportunity to build depth within their squad. Erasmus has made 13 changes from the side that defeated the All Blacks, with only Eben Etzebeth and Ethan Hooker retaining their starting places. The changes mean players such as Handre Pollard, Herschel Jantjies, and Franco Mostert return to the starting XV.

There is also a milestone for Andre Esterhuizen, who will captain South Africa for the first time, becoming the 68th player to lead the Springboks. Eben Etzebeth will also extend his record as South Africa’s most-capped player to 147 Tests.

Tactical Overview 

Australia are likely to look for opportunities to move the Springbok defence around and make the most of their attacking pace. The Wallabies have shown improved attacking intent under Les Kiss, while their backline contains plenty of speed and athleticism.

The aerial contest could be particularly important. Australia have been preparing to counter South Africa’s kicking game, with players such as Max Jorgensen highlighting the importance of dealing with the Springboks’ high-ball threat.

For South Africa, the set piece remains a major part of their game. Australia will have to deal with a powerful Springbok pack and a physical contest at scrum and maul time. Taniela Tupou has acknowledged the challenge posed by South Africa’s set-piece strength.

The Springboks’ selection also points towards a slightly different approach from the team that defeated New Zealand. With 13 changes, Erasmus is using the match to test combinations and give less-used players valuable Test experience, while still retaining significant experience on the bench.

Players to Watch 

TBC (Australia) 

Andre Esterhuizen (Springboks) 

Esterhuizen takes on the Springbok captaincy for the first time and starts at centre. His physical presence in midfield could be important against an Australian backline that will look to create space and attack from wide areas.

Starting Lineup (Australia) 

TBC

Starting Lineup (Springboks) 

1. Jan-Hendrik Wessels
2. Johan Grobbelaar
3. Zachary Porthen
4. Eben Etzebeth
5. Fanco Mostert
6. Paul de Villiers
7. Elrigh Louw
8. Marco van Staden
9. Herschel Jantjies
10. Handre Pollard
11. Ethan Hooker
12. Andre Esterhuizen (C)
13. Canan Moodie
14. Edwill van der Merwe
15. Aphelele Fassi

Replacements

16. Malcolm Marx
17. Ox Nche
18. Wilco Louw
19. Lood de Jager
20. Jasper Wiese
21. Morne van den Berg
22. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
23. Quan Horn

Match Details

Date: 27 September 2026 

Venue: Optus Stadium, Perth

Kick-off Time: 11:45am 

TV: SuperSport 

Prediction 

Australia’s recent form makes this a potentially competitive Test, particularly with home advantage at Optus Stadium. The Wallabies have won four of their last five matches and will be confident after their recent run of results.

However, the Springboks’ depth and experience could prove decisive. Even after making 13 changes, South Africa’s starting XV contains several established Test players. The bench includes experienced internationals such as Malcolm Marx, Ox Nche, and Lood de Jager.

The Springboks also enter the fixture after beating the All Blacks 43-28, and their physicality at set piece and ability to apply pressure through the kicking game could give them an edge in Perth.

Prediction: Springboks to win

Do you back our boys? Bet on rugby now with bet.co.za.