Exciting Uncapped Players Named in Springbok Squad for Season Opener
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has made some bold selections for the upcoming season, with four uncapped players named in the squad for the first match against the Barbarians in Cape Town.
Leading the pack are Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye and Sharks flanker Vincent Tshituka, who will be making their debut in the starting lineup. Joining them on the bench are hooker Marnus van der Merwe and prop Neethling Fouche, both eager to earn their first cap for the national team.
Experienced Lineup with World Cup Winners
The starting team is a mix of youth and experience, with captain Siya Kolisi leading a side that includes eight World Cup winners. Morne van den Berg will showcase his skills at scrumhalf, while Jean-Luc du Preez takes on the role of eighthman. The return of Lood de Jager after a series of injuries adds depth to the forward pack.
Exciting Backline Combinations
Aphelele Fassi will bring his flair to the fullback position, supported by Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu at flyhalf. Lock Jean Kleyn gets another opportunity to shine, while the dynamic Malcolm Marx holds down the hooker position.
An Experienced Bench
The bench is packed with experience, including five World Cup winners. Prop Jan-Hendrik Wessels will be looking to make an impact off the bench, as the Bulls players were only considered due to their recent URC final appearance. Handre Pollard and RG Snyman were unavailable for selection, having joined the squad late, while Pieter-Steph du Toit has made a successful return from injury.
Exciting Times Ahead for Springbok Rugby
The Springbok team is set for an exciting season opener against the Barbarians, with a mix of seasoned professionals and talented newcomers. The depth of talent in the squad bodes well for the future of South African rugby, as they look to build on their success in the World Cup.
Springbok Squad: Aphelele Fassi, Cheslin Kolbe, Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Morne van den Berg, Jean-Luc du Preez, Vincent Tshituka, Siya Kolisi (capt), Lood de Jager, Jean Kleyn, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Malcolm Marx, Ox Nche. Bench: Marnus van der Merwe, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Neethling Fouche, Franco Mostert, Kwagga Smith, Cobus Reinach, Manie Libbok, Andre Esterhuizen
