Straeuli blends youth with experience

COACH Rudi Straeuli continues to ring the changes sweeping through South Africa’s rugby team by making four more for Saturday’s clash with England as his side bid to avoid the indignity of returning home without a victory from their European tour.

Straeuli's alterations combine experience with youth as he attempts to balance the dilemma of salvaging lost pride after the 30-10 defeat in France and 21-6 loss to Scotland with a rebuilding programme aimed at next year's World Cup.

For Saturday's match, hooker James Dalton, at 30 the touring party's most experienced player, is recalled along with lock AJ Venter, while 21-year-old flanker Pedrie Wannenburg is handed his first international start.