Springboks' Season Finale: Wales Awaits

The Springboks are set to conclude their 2024 season with a crucial match against Wales at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday, November 23rd. This highly anticipated clash will see England's Karl Dickson take charge as the referee, a significant appointment given the Springboks' mixed record under his officiating.

Match Officials and Key Details

The match will kick off at 7:40 PM South African time. Besides Karl Dickson as the main referee, Christophe Ridley (England) and Damian Schneider (Uruguay) will serve as assistant referees. Andrew Jackson (England) will be the Television Match Official (TMO) with Stuart Terheege (England) acting as the Foul Play Review Officer (FPRO). This combination of match officials brings a blend of experience and international perspectives to the crucial game.

Key Match Officials:

Referee: Karl Dickson (England)
Assistant Referees: Christophe Ridley (England), Damian Schneider (Uruguay)
Television Match Official (TMO): Andrew Jackson (England)
Foul Play Review Officer (FPRO): Stuart Terheege (England)

Springboks' Record Under Dickson's Officiating

The Springboks have a balanced record under Karl Dickson's watch, having won one and lost one of their previous two matches officiated by him. This 50/50 split adds an intriguing layer to this upcoming encounter. The upcoming match will mark the first time Dickson will referee a Springboks game outside of South Africa. The Springboks are keen to add to their winning streak which will be their third this November. This game is the final of the Springboks' Castle Lager Outgoing Tour and is a chance for them to secure a full house of wins for the first time since 2013.

Springbok Team Selection and Strategy

The Springbok team selection for this game includes several key changes. Prop Ox Nche will be rested, with Wilco Louw returning to the starting team at tighthead prop, and Thomas du Toit moving to loosehead. Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse, the 36th set of Springbok brothers, will be paired at halfback. Springbok lock Jean Kleyn, making his return after the Rugby World Cup final, has warned that Wales will be a dangerous opponent. RG Snyman has also added that this will be a tough closing encounter for the Springboks.

Starting XV:

15 Aphelele Fassi
14 Cheslin Kolbe
13 Jesse Kriel
12 Damian de Allende
11 Kurt-Lee Arendse
10 Jordan Hendrikse
9 Jaden Hendrikse
8 Jasper Wiese
7 Pieter-Steph du Toit
6 Siya Kolisi (captain)
5 Franco Mostert
4 Jean Kleyn
3 Wilco Louw
2 Johan Grobbelaar
1 Thomas du Toit

Substitutes:

16 Malcolm Marx
17 Gerhard Steenekamp
18 Vincent Koch
19 Eben Etzebeth
20 RG Snyman
21 Cameron Hanekom
22 Cobus Reinach
23 Handre Pollard

Wales' Preparations and Potential Threats

Wales, facing their final match of the Autumn internationals, will undoubtedly be highly motivated to put up a strong fight. The Welsh team will pose a significant threat with their passionate style of play, home-ground advantage and the experience of their players.

A Pivotal Clash

This match between the Springboks and Wales promises to be a thrilling encounter. With Karl Dickson's officiating adding another layer of intrigue, and both teams eager to finish the year on a high note, the fans are in for an exciting game. The outcome will be heavily influenced by the strategic decisions made by both coaches, as well as the referee’s interpretations of the laws of rugby. The match will not only determine the outcome of the final game but will also set the tone for the year ahead.

The Final Whistle: A Season's End

The upcoming clash between the Springboks and Wales represents more than just a rugby match; it is a culmination of weeks of intense competition and preparation. It is the final chapter of the Springboks' Castle Lager Outgoing Tour, where the team will strive for a triumphant end to their international season. The match is important for both teams, who will showcase their skills and determination in a bid for victory. The game is sure to provide spectators with an unforgettable spectacle. The end of the tour is marked by a mix of emotions, as players look to end the season on a high note while embracing the memories created throughout the campaign. The legacy of this tour will live on beyond this final match. The upcoming encounter will showcase the talent and determination of both teams and fans will anticipate a high intensity and skill throughout the game.