The Springboks have made two changes in the backline, as they bring back Faf de Klerk for the first of two critical games against Australia.
The South Africans have also called on Warrick Gelant on the wing, whilst several players who came in for the second test defeat to New Zealand have retained their places.
Ox Nche and Bongi Mbonambi remain ahead Trevor Nyakane and Malcom Marx at loosehead prop and hooker respectively, while Duane Vermuelen is chosen in front of Jasper Wiese in the number eight shirt, with Wiese dropping off the bench as the Springboks opt for a 5-3 split of forwards and backs, rather than 6-2.
Questions will be asked over Marx once again being on the bench, but this is likely due to South Africa's notorious ‘Bomb Squad' policy of having a strong front row among the substitutes to have maximum impact in the second half.
In addition, some are unsure about the inclusion of De Klerk, who was completely knocked out less than three weeks ago.
Having been beaten by the All Blacks, South Africa sit third in the table behind leaders Argentina, and their opponents on Saturday.
Of the decision to switch from a six-two to a five-three split on the bench, Nienaber said: “We looked at what Australia will bring to the game, and that combined with our need to give Elton and Frans Steyn some vital game time, prompted us to select five forwards and three backs on the bench.
“With Franco (Mostert) and Kwagga (Smith) on the bench, we will have cover at lock and loose forward, while Frans Steyn's versatility will also be handy as he can cover centre and fullback. These changes obviously mean that Willie, Jasper and Herschel lose out, but we know what we have in them and what they bring to the team.”
Nienaber expected a big onslaught from the Wallabies who will be equally determined to bounce back from their defeat against Argentina and said: “Australia are always a tough force at home and the fact that we haven't beaten them here since 2013 is evidence of that.
“Much like us, they will also want to bounce back after going down against Argentina, so we expect them to come out firing. The fact that this will be the first Test between the teams in Adelaide will serve as extra motivation for both teams this weekend, so we are preparing for another epic encounter against them.”
Nienaber added: “We had a thorough review of our last match against New Zealand, and we have identified the areas of our game in which we need improve. We know we need to make a big step-up in the quality of our performance to start the tour on a positive note, and that is a big objective for us this weekend.”
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