Schmidt keeps faith with winning Wallabies, but with one major gamble
Having debuted in 2008, O'Connor will now claim the record for the longest Wallabies career at 16 years and 281 days, passing Greg Holmes. He is one of six Wallabies to have played Tests in three different decades.
The 35-year-old had a career renaissance at the Crusaders this year, where he carved a niche as an expert finisher in the Kiwi side's run to a Super Rugby Pacific title. O'Connor only started one game for the Crusaders, however, and it was a loss.
On the bench, the Wallabies have made just one change, with de Crespigny added to a 6-2 bench.
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt said in a statement: 'The group has had a good week of preparation, adjusting pretty well to the time zone and the altitude well here in Johannesburg.
'There's not many bigger Tests than playing South Africa on their home turf and we know we're going to need to be at our best on Saturday night.'
Schmidt will address media later on Thursday evening (AEST).
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