Joe van Niekerk was the surprise selection in the South African team for the Tri-Nations Test against the All Blacks in Wellington on Saturday.
All Blacks scrumhalf Jimmy Cowan has been ordered to stop drinking alcohol or face the sack after attending a misconduct hearing on Tuesday.
Rodney So’oialo was on Monday still coming to terms with the All Black captaincy as New Zealand began preparations for Saturday’s Tri-Nations opener.
The Springboks have arrived in New Zealand and will start with preparations for their Tri-Nations Test against the All Blacks next week.
SA selectors pick only two hookers among the 28-man squad announced for next month’s Tri-Nations matches against New Zealand and Australia.
Having enjoyed a winning start to his term as South Africa coach, Peter de Villiers now turns his attention to the Tri-Nations.
Having beaten Wales, South Africa get another chance to test their strength in depth before the Tri-Nations when they tackle Italy on Saturday.