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Italy vs Springboks: Erasmus’ Men Target Another Nations Championship Win

By Grace Thaba 6 Nov 2026 3 Min Read Save

Last updated: 6 Nov 2026, 20:37

The Springboks return to Nations Championship action on Saturday with an important away clash against Italy in Turin, knowing that another victory could strengthen their push for a place in the competition’s final.

Rassie Erasmus’ side head into the encounter unbeaten after collecting wins against England, Scotland and Wales during the opening round of fixtures in July.

However, South Africa face a demanding November schedule, with away matches against Italy, France and Ireland standing between them and a potential place in the final.

The Springboks currently share top spot in the Southern Hemisphere standings with New Zealand, with both teams having collected the maximum 15 points from their opening three matches.

South Africa lead on points difference, sitting at +81 compared to the All Blacks’ +51. With both nations competing for a place in the final, the November results could have a significant impact on the standings.

Springboks Under Pressure To Maintain Momentum

While the Springboks remain in a strong position, their European tour presents a stern test of their title ambitions.

New Zealand will also be in action against Scotland, Wales and England, but South Africa’s fixtures against Italy, France and Ireland leave little room for complacency.

Erasmus’ team will also be looking to bounce back from their recent 42-38 defeat to Australia. An experimental Springbok side suffered the loss in a one-off Test following the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series, in which South Africa defeated New Zealand three times in four encounters.

Although squad rotation and fatigue played a role, the result will serve as a reminder of how quickly momentum can shift at international level.

With the Nations Championship final in sight, the Springboks will be determined to avoid another costly setback.

Injury Concerns Ahead Of Italy Clash

Erasmus has several selection challenges to manage, with a number of key players unavailable for Saturday’s encounter.

Eben Etzebeth, Cheslin Kolbe, Andre Esterhuizen, Handre Pollard and Yaqeen Ahmed are among the players ruled out through injury.

Cameron Hanekom has, however, been included on the bench despite concerns over a minor back strain sustained during the Bulls’ victory over the Scarlets.

Italy are also dealing with injury problems of their own. Captain Michele Lamaro is among a group of up to 15 players who have been absent from the training squad, while Marco Riccioni is unavailable for personal reasons.

The hosts will therefore have their own selection concerns to overcome as they prepare to face the defending world champions.

Italy Look To Cause An Upset In Turin

Despite their difficult start to the Nations Championship, Italy will be eager to make home advantage count against the unbeaten Springboks.

South Africa have enjoyed the upper hand throughout the history of the rivalry, with Italy managing just one victory. That came in November 2016, when the hosts secured a memorable 20-18 win in Florence under former Springbok coach Allister Coetzee.

The Springboks will be determined to ensure there is no repeat in Turin, particularly with valuable championship points at stake.

However, Italy could take encouragement from South Africa’s recent defensive record. The Boks have conceded 22 tries across their last five Tests, an area the hosts may look to exploit if they can create opportunities in attack.

With their unbeaten record on the line and a place in the Nations Championship final still to play for, South Africa have plenty of motivation heading into the contest.