Australia vs. South Africa: Date, Time, Live Stream, TV Info, 2015 TRC Preview

Rory MarsdenJul 16, 2015

Australia kick off their 2015 Rugby Championship campaign against South Africa in Brisbane on Saturday with both sides looking to make a winning start.

Not only will they both be looking to triumph in the annual tournament, it also offers a perfect opportunity to find form ahead of the autumn World Cup in England.

Last year's fixture was a thrilling 24-23 victory for the Wallabies in Perth; a late converted try stole it for the hosts.

Preview

The Wallabies had a tough time of it on their European tour back in November. They won against Wales in their opener but were beaten by France, Ireland and England.

With the World Cup looming—and Australia in a tough group which includes Wales and England—Australia need to find some form if they are to even make the knockout stages.

With that in mind, coach Michael Cheika has made some changes in his back line. Will Genia and Quade Cooper will partner each other in the halves for the first time since 2013, while Matt Giteau has been recalled to the side after a four-year absence to play at No. 12.

Per the Australian Associated Press (h/t the Guardian), Cheika is optimistic about the changes he has made: "With new combinations comes a new level of energy to our team environment and Will, Quade and Matthew certainly bring that. Matt is a true professional and his impact on the team dynamic has been immediate. His form in Toulon and work ethic since joining the squad has been first class."

Wallabies provide the full 15 ahead of the Brisbane clash:

As far as the Springboks team is concerned, Schalk Burger returns at No. 8 in Heyneke Meyer's side as South Africa look to build on recent success in Australia, per SA Rugby.

They were pipped at the last in 2014, but the previous year at the Suncorp, South Africa thrashed their hosts 38-12.

However, that is their only victory at the Suncorp, and it was their first in Australia since 2009.

Home advantage should play a big role on Saturday, and Australia will be desperate to get themselves an opening victory to build momentum.

Although the Rugby Championship is clearly of huge importance, the World Cup is the main prize in 2015.

South Africa's group is relatively easy. They can afford to play their way into the tournament in England. However, Australia will need to hit the ground running with a tough task facing them to even make it out of the group.

The best preparation would be a successful Rugby Championship, and a fast start could be key.

Last year's match between these two sides Down Under was a thriller.

A repeat would be fantastic for the neutral observer, and it is certainly set to be a close encounter, meaning the nerves should jangle for those involved.