Five Springbok stars who need to shine against All Blacks in do-or-die Wellington clash

While it will take a 23-man effort to secure victory in the second Test in Wellington, the Springboks will rely on key players to spark the team against the All Blacks on Saturday.

Coming off the back of a nail-biting loss at Eden Park, several senior players will look to improve their performances, while some rookies must step up in key backline positions.

We look at five players who need to deliver for the world champions if they are to win at the Cake Tin (09.05am kick-off) in New Zealand’s capital.

Malcolm Marx

The seasoned hooker admitted that his lineout performance and ability to find his jumpers weren’t up to scratch in the first Test. He lost multiple throws, and a crucial missed tackle from him led directly to a try.

Marx will want to prove he is still the Boks’ number one hooker, and he can back that up with a strong performance this weekend. While he must sharpen his throws, his work at the breakdown will be just as vital to South Africa’s attacking plans.

Pieter-Steph du Toit

After a quieter showing in Auckland, the veteran bruiser will be eager to intensify his contributions on Saturday. He needs to rediscover the dominant physicality he showed in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final.

His leadership will also be key, particularly given how young the backline is. Stopping New Zealand’s midfield threats on defence will be crucial, while his presence at the breakdown could disrupt the All Blacks’ rhythm.

Cobus Reinach

His injection of energy at Eden Park was palpable, and that spark must be there from the opening whistle this time. The veteran rolled back the years with his cameo, and if he can replicate that across 80 minutes, the Boks will be in a good space.

Reinach will also play a crucial role in guiding his relatively inexperienced backline, particularly flyhalf partner Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. If he rises to the occasion, the South African attack should thrive on the front foot.

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu

Will he seize the chance to stake a claim as the Springboks’ first-choice flyhalf? Saturday offers him that platform, though he will be under immense pressure in this high-stakes clash. Much is expected of the youngster, especially in sparking the attack.

If he can get the backline firing early, the Boks have the weapons to run the All Blacks ragged. His kicking game — both from hand and at goal — will be equally crucial.

Canan Moodie

The cornerstone of the Boks’ defensive effort, Moodie’s impact on attack will be just as important. He relishes the duel at outside centre against the All Blacks and will look to deliver another strong display.

A lot rests on his shoulders, particularly in reading New Zealand’s attacking patterns. How he handles the pressure could play a decisive role in shaping the final scoreline.