Yaqeen Ahmed returns from suspension in one of a number of changes for the Junior Boks ahead of their decisive World Rugby U20 Championship Pool A clash against Wales in Tbilisi.
Victory on Tuesday will secure a place in the semi-finals.
Coach Kevin Foote has made six changes to the starting XV that beat Georgia, with four of those coming in the backline as South Africa prepare for what is effectively a pool decider against the unbeaten Welsh.
FOOTE: Georgia gave us the fight we expected
Alzeadon Felix comes into the starting side at fullback, while Ethan Adams returns from injury to start at inside centre. Khuthadzo Rasivhaga is recalled on the left wing and Ahmed takes over at flyhalf after Luan Giliomee was ruled out with concussion.
Among the forwards, hat-trick hero against Uruguay Risima Khosa starts at flank and Vuyo Gwiji comes in at No 8.
Foote believes his side is ready for one of its biggest tests of the tournament.
“We want to continue building on our work ethic and battle-rate areas because we’re going to need that against a tough Welsh side that keeps fighting until the very end.”
The Junior Bok coach expects another fierce contest against a Welsh outfit that has also won its opening two matches.
“Wales never go away.
“They are a gritty outfit and will provide a stern test. We’ve selected what we believe is a very competitive squad, and the players are fully focused and excited for what will be a decisive match for both teams. There is everything to play for.”
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Foote was also pleased with the way his players adapted to overcome hosts Georgia in their previous outing.
“Georgia is a tough team to beat at home. They are extremely physical and place a strong emphasis on their set piece. I thought we did exceptionally well to absorb the early pressure before imposing ourselves on the game, which ultimately led to a deserved victory.”
South Africa head into the clash at the top of Pool A, with Wales just one log point behind. The winner will finish top of the pool and book a place in the semi-finals.
JUNIOR SPRINGBOKS – 15 Alzeadon Felix, 14 Cheswill Jooste, 13 Samuel Badenhorst, 12 Ethan Adams, 11 Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, 10 Yaqeen Ahmed, 9 Hendré Schoeman, 8 Vuyo Gwiji, 7 Luke Cannon, 6 Risima Khosa, 5 JD Hattingh, 4 Heinrich Theron, 3 Danie Kruger, 2 Siphosethu Mnebelele (c), 1 Oliver Reid.
Bench: 16 Liam van Wyk, 17 Rambo Kubheka, 18 Luan van der Berg, 19 Jaythen Orange, 20 Gert Kemp, 21 Jayden Brits, 22 Markus Muller, 23 Jordan Steenkamp.
Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images
The post Ahmed back to marshall Junior Boks’ attack appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Yaqeen Ahmed returns from suspension in one of a number of changes for the Junior Boks ahead of their decisive World Rugby U20 Championship Pool A clash against Wales in Tbilisi.
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