Springboks favourites against depleted Italy in Turin on Saturday

The Springboks begin their Nations Championship campaign this Saturday in Turin, and, according to IOL, anything short of a comfortable win over Italy would be seen as a letdown. Kick-off at the Allianz Stadium is at 2.45pm.

A strong side from Erasmus

Coach Rassie Erasmus has picked a team full of experience, including several World Cup winners. IOL pointed out that the selection suggests he wants a winning start rather than a round of experiments. Winger Kurt-Lee Arendse is named as one of the main attacking threats for the world champions.

The Boks are not at full strength. Handré Pollard, Cheslin Kolbe, Eben Etzebeth, André Esterhuizen and Kwagga Smith are all unavailable through injury. Even so, the depth in the squad means South Africa remain overwhelming favourites, IOL reported.

Italy short of key players

The hosts have a far tougher task. Coach Gonzalo Quesada must do without about 16 players. The midfield pair of Juan Ignacio Brex and Tommaso Menoncello are out, as is captain Michele Lamaro.

IOL described those absences as a major setback for Italy’s chances of an upset. It also noted that the gaps give the replacements a chance to make a name for themselves against the reigning world champions. The side has improved in recent seasons and will want to show it can compete with the best, though the report said a shock result looks highly unlikely.

A warning from 2016

The Springboks will not take Italy lightly. In Florence in 2016, the Italians won 20-18, a result IOL called one of the most embarrassing defeats in South African rugby history. The report said it showed that reputations and rankings count for little once the match starts, and that Erasmus will be determined to avoid a repeat.

What lies ahead

For South African supporters, the main question on Saturday is the manner of the win. IOL said a big winning margin would be the ideal way to start, as harder tests against France and Ireland follow later in the November campaign.

• Venue: Allianz Stadium, Turin
• Day: Saturday
• Kick-off: 2.45pm, as listed by IOL

This story is based on reporting by IOL.