South Africa vs Georgia live: Latest Springboks score and rugby updates – UK Times

South Africa have picked three debutants in their front row today, evidence of their ridiculous depth in that area but also perhaps a risk against a Georgian side that, as ever, has plenty of scrum strength.

“Georgia are a physical team, and they pride themselves on their set pieces, so we know having to match that will be the toughest part for us,” said Springboks assistant coach Mzwandile Stick this week.

“I’ve been to Georgia, and I’ve seen how tough their players are, but the key for us is to improve on our standards consistently, and as coaches, we feel there is still room for improvement, so we are hoping to see the players execute the game plan as well as possible and to play with the intensity we expect.”

Aphelele Fassi hasn’t always had an easy time in international rugby, but the Springboks full-back came again to seize the No 15 shirt last year after a period out of the South Africa set-up. The 27-year-old made his debut against Georgia in 2021 – here’s a little bit more about a player really starting to find his footing at this level…

It’s four years since these two last met, that game serving as preparation for South Africa ahead of the British and Irish Lions series before a second meeting was cancelled due to the Covid pandemic in a sign of the different times in which that Test was played.

A very good afternoon and welcome to The Independent’s live coverage of South Africa’s international clash with Georgia as the Springboks continue a busy July of action. With a series win against Italy already in the bag this month, Rassie Erasmus has rotated again but has taken few chances in a strong selection for the visit of a European opponent always pushing for more opportunities like this.

Kick off in Mbombela is at 4.10pm BST.