The Springboks Kick Off 2025 Season Against Barbarians in Cape Town
Excitement is brewing as SA Rugby has officially announced that the Springboks will start their 2025 season with a highly anticipated clash against the Barbarians in Cape Town on Saturday, 28 June. This match marks the first time the invitational side will play in South Africa, adding to the historic significance of the event.
Tickets for this momentous occasion at the Cape Town Stadium will be available for purchase starting on Tuesday, 6 May, with prices starting from R250. Rugby fans are urged to secure their seats early to witness this thrilling encounter between two formidable teams.
Robbie Deans to Lead the Barbarians
Leading the Barbarians on the field will be the experienced coach Robbie Deans, who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the team. With a coaching career that spans nearly three decades and includes stints with the All Blacks, Wallabies, and Crusaders, Deans is sure to have his players primed for an exciting showdown against the Springboks.
This match will mark the ninth meeting between the Boks and the Barbarians, with their last encounter resulting in a thrilling 31-31 draw at Wembley Stadium in London on 5 November 2016. Fans can expect another epic battle as these two rugby powerhouses face off once again.
SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer expressed his excitement about hosting the Barbarians in South Africa for the first time, highlighting the significance of this historic moment for both teams.
Following the clash with the Barbarians, the Springboks will continue their Test season with matches against Italy and Georgia before shifting their focus to the Rugby Championship.
Preparation for the 2025 Test Season
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus emphasized the importance of the Barbarians match as a crucial preparation for the upcoming Test season. This encounter will provide the perfect opportunity for the players to fine-tune their skills and get match-ready before facing their international rivals.
Erasmus added, “There is nothing like a proper international match with the full build-up and pressure to get the players battle-ready. This match against the Barbarians will serve as a great occasion for us to gauge our readiness for the official international season ahead.”
Springbok Home Fixtures for 2025:
28 June: Barbarians vs. SA – Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
July Tests:
5 July: SA vs. Italy – Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
12 July: SA vs. Italy – Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha
19 July: SA vs. Georgia – Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit
Rugby Championship:
16 August: SA vs. Australia – Ellis Park, Johannesburg
23 August: SA vs. Australia – Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town
27 September: SA vs. Argentina – Kings Park, Durban
