South Africa coach Jake White retained just four players who started in the 36-0 defeat of titleholders England last Friday when he named his team for the World Cup Group A match against Tonga in Lens on Saturday.
The 43-year-old has guided the Springboks to two impressive wins over Samoa (59-7) and England, and has the luxury now of being able to rest, as he said he would, several of his first team, even against the unbeaten Tongans.
Veteran flanker Bobby Skinstad — who was a member of the starting line-up in the 1999 World Cup but has enjoyed a roller coaster of a career since then — gets his first call-up and the captaincy to boot as regular skipper John Smit gets to warm the bench.
Percy Montgomery may also have to wait a bit to become the sole proprietor of the most caps in Springbok history — he has 89 alongside Joost van der Westhuizen — as he is also among the replacements, with utility back Ruan Pienaar filling in for him.
There is also a first start for centre Wayne Julies, who was only called up to the squad last week when first-choice Jean de Villiers was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after he suffered a bicep injury in the win over Samoa.
Julies earned his call up due to outstanding performances for Super 14 champions the Bulls.
The 28-year-old has played in 10 Tests for the Springboks – which they have all won — and like Skinstad was a member of the squad that reached the 1999 World Cup semifinals. — AFP
Team: Ruan Pienaar; Ashwin Willemse, Wynand Olivier, Wayne Julies, JP Pietersen; Andre Pretorius, Enrico Januarie; Danie Rossouw, Wickus van Heerden, Bobby Skinstad (capt); Albert van den Berg, Bakkies Botha; CJ van der Linde, Gary Botha, Gurthro Steenkamp. Replacements: John Smit, BJ Botha, Victor Matfield, Juan Smith, Bryan Habana, Francois Steyn, Percy Montgomery