France v South Africa
Springboks hand Oosthuizen first start
ESPN Staff
November 20, 2013
The Springboks were dominant against Scotland © Getty Images
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The Springboks have handed Coenie Oosthuizen his first start ahead of Saturday's match against France in Paris.

South Africa hammered Scotland 28-0 last Sunday despite making a host of changes to their side. Boks coach Heyneke Meyer has now recalled the likes of Tendai Mtawarira, Morne Steyn, Bismarck du Plessis and Eben Etzebeth for Saturday's game with Oosthuizen handed his first start.

On the bench, Lourens Adriaanse could make his debut if he gets the nod.

"This is a great opportunity for Coenie and we believe he's ready to make the step up to a starting role in the team," Meyer said. "I'm also very happy for Lourens, who has been part of the squad for almost the entire season. He's waited patiently for an opportunity and what better way to make your debut than against France in Paris."

And the Boks are hopeful of ending an impressive year on a high. Meyer added: "Gurthrö, Adriaan, Bakkies and Pat did very well last week against Scotland and will have an important role to play this week.

"We have been quite fortunate with injuries this year and I'm very happy that we've managed to keep the continuity in selection. Most of the players have received ample game time and showed they have what it takes to perform at Test level. Our aim is now to keep on improving against France and hopefully end a very successful season on a high note."

South Africa:

Willie le Roux, JP Pietersen, Jaque Fourie, Jean de Villiers (captain), Bryan Habana, Morne Steyn, Ruan Pienaar; Tendai Mtawarira, Bismarck du Plessis, Coenie Oosthuizen, Eben Etzebeth, Flip van der Merwe, Francois Louw, Willem Alberts, Duane Vermeulen.

Replacements: Adriaan Strauss, Gurthrö Steenkamp, Lourens Adriaanse, Bakkies Botha, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Siya Kolisi, Jano Vermaak, Pat Lambie

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