Springboks team to play All Blacks: Siya Kolisi misses out

South Africa's incredible depth means several established internationals could miss out, particularly among the replacements, but Erasmus is expected to lean heavily on experience for the opening Test.

With Siya Kolisi's fitness a concern, Pieter-Steph du Toit could also be handed the captaincy.

Here's our predicted Springboks XV.

Willemse has strengthened his grip on the number 15 jersey and looks the obvious choice at full-back. His ability under the high ball could be particularly important against New Zealand.

One of the easiest selections Erasmus will make. Kolbe remains one of the most dangerous players in world rugby and offers far more than simply finishing opportunities.

Arendse's remarkable Test try-scoring record makes him difficult to leave out. Ethan Hooker provides serious competition, but expect Erasmus to trust the established combination for the opener.

A defensive leader and one of South Africa's most consistent performers. Kriel remains a crucial part of the Springboks' defensive system and should retain the 13 jersey.

The veteran remains incredibly difficult to replace. His power gives South Africa their trademark gain-line presence, while his distribution is often underrated.

This could be one of Erasmus' biggest decisions. Manie Libbok and Handre Pollard remain major options, but Feinberg-Mngomezulu's extraordinary talent and versatility could see him trusted with the jersey against New Zealand.

Williams gets our vote ahead of Cobus Reinach. His speed around the breakdown and ability to increase the tempo could make him particularly dangerous against the All Blacks.

Cameron Hanekom continues to push hard, but Erasmus has made Wiese's standing in the squad clear. When available, the powerful number eight remains extremely difficult to shift.

With Kolisi potentially unavailable, Du Toit is our pick to captain the Springboks. His workload could be carefully managed during the build-up to 2027, but this is exactly the sort of Test South Africa will want him starting.

This selection hinges on Kolisi's fitness. If the Springboks skipper isn't ready, De Villiers could be handed arguably the biggest start of his young Test career.

Nortje's work-rate and importance at the lineout have made him an increasingly important member of Erasmus' pack. He gets the nod ahead of some seriously experienced competition.

South Africa's record cap holder remains a massive presence. After getting valuable minutes into his legs against Argentina, expect Etzebeth to be unleashed against the All Blacks.

Wilco Louw and the emerging Zachary Porthen give Erasmus options, but Du Toit's all-round contribution should be enough to keep him in the starting XV.

Still one of the world's premier hookers. Marx's breakdown threat, carrying and set-piece quality make him an automatic selection for a Test of this magnitude.

Nche has gone from Bomb Squad destroyer to first-choice loosehead. His scrummaging remains his biggest weapon, but his impact around the field makes him one of South Africa's most valuable forwards.

You've got just 5 minutes on the clock – no pressure!