Boks change captains, again

From correspondents in Christchurch
July 11, 2007

LOCK Johann Muller became South Africa's fourth captain in four matches when he was named to lead the Springboks against New Zealand in the Tri-Nations match in Christchurch on Saturday.

The side contains four changes to the starting line-up that frittered away a 17-0 lead against Australia in Sydney last weekend to lose 17-25.

Muller inherits the captaincy from loose forward Bobby Skinstad, who suffered broken ribs against Australia.

Regular skipper John Smit, who was injured in the first Test against Australia, and replacement Victor Matfield who led the Springboks in the first Test against the All Blacks, were both omitted from the touring squad.

Skinstad's place at the back of the scrum goes to experienced loose forward Jacques Cronje while Muller's locking partner will be Albert van den Berg, who replaces injured Johan Ackermann.

The only form-related change in the pack sees Sharks hooker Bismarck du Plessis coming in for Gary Botha.

Du Plessis joins his brother, prop Jannie, in the starting line-up of a Test for the first time.

The sole backline casualty from the Australian loss is full back Bevan Fortuin, with Jaco Pretorius coming in on the left wing and JP Pietersen shifting to full back.

Australia leads the series with two wins from three matches, while New Zealand and South Africa have one win each.

Agence France-Presse

South Africa:

1. CJ van der Linde,
2. Bismarck du Plessis,
3. Jannie du Plessis,
4. Albert van den Berg,
5. Johann Muller (captain),
6. Wikus van Heerden,
7. Pedrie Wannenburg,
8. Jacques Cronje,

9. Ruan Pienaar,
10. Derick Hougaard,
11. Jaco Pretorius,
12. Wynand Olivier,
13. Waylon Murray,
14. Breyton Paulse,
15. JP Pietersen.

16. Gary Botha,
17. Eddie Andrews,
18. Gerrie Britz,
19. Hilton Lobberts,
20. Michael Claassens,
21. Peter Grant,
22. Tonderai Chavhanga