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Team News: John Smit returns for South Africa

Team News: Smit returns for South Africa
© PA Photos
Captain John Smit returns to South Africa's starting lineup for Sunday's quarter-final against Australia.

South African coach Peter de Villiers has recalled captain John Smit to his starting lineup for Sunday's quarter-final meeting with Australia.

The inclusion of Smit, which sees Bismarck du Plessis return to the bench, is one of three changes from the side that defeated Samoa last time out.

Also coming into the team are Gurthro Steenkamp and Jean de Villiers.

The Springboks' starting 15 have a total 836 caps between them, surpassing a record they previously set during their opening World Cup fixture against Wales.

South Africa: Pat Lambie, JP Pietersen, Jaque Fourie, Jean de Villiers, Bryan Habana, Morné Steyn, Fourie du Preez, Pierre Spies, Schalk Burger, Heinrich Brüssow, Victor Matfield, Danie Rossouw, Jannie du Plessis, John Smit (c), Gurthrö Steenkamp.

Replacements: 16 Bismarck du Plessis, CJ van der Linde, Willem Alberts, Francois Louw, Francois Hougaard, Butch James, Gio Aplon.

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