Rassie backs Kwagga to shine at No 8 as Wiese misses France Test

In Toulon

SA Rugby director of rugby Rassie Erasmus confirmed that Kwagga Smith received the nod at number eight ahead of Evan Roos for Saturday's Test against France in Marseille because of his "form and adaptability".

Smith, who had an excellent second half against Ireland in Dublin last week, was drafted into the starting line-up after Jasper Wiese withdraw due to a concussion issue.

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Erasmus said Smith covers several positions in the backrow, with the same being applicable to Deon Fourie, who has been drafted into the bench to fill Smith's place.

"It is a matter of opinion because Kwagga is also a number eight and he has done well for us in the position," Erasmus told reporters on Friday.

"When we train, he's definitely our second choice eight. When Duane was involved and it was touch and go for him, Kwagga covered the position.

"We hoped that Jasper could pass the criteria from a head injury assessment rule perspective and I think we were one of the first countries that were informed of how to deal with the new protocol," he continued.

"We were hoping he was going to pass because he was looking really good, so with a late change like this one, a guy like Deon makes sense for us.

"He knows the French culture and has played against them a fair bit."

France

15 Thomas Ramos; 14 Damian Penaud, 13 Gael Fickou, 12 Jonathan Danty, 11 Yoram Moefana; 10 Romain Ntamack, 9 Antoine Dupont (captain); 8 Gregory Alldritt, 7 Charles Ollivon, 6 Anthony Jelonch; 5 Thibaud Flament, 4 Cameron Woki; 3 Uini Atonio, 2 Julien Marchand, 1 Cyril Baille

Substitutes: 16 Peato Mauvaka, 17 Reda Wardi, 18 Sipili Falatea, 19 Romain Taofifenua, 20 Bastien Chalureau, 21 Sekou