The Springboks Prepare to Face the Barbarians in Season Opener
The Springboks’ 2025 season kicks off this week with a highly anticipated match against the Barbarians in Cape Town on Saturday. While not an official Test, the clash promises to be a challenging encounter for the double world champions.
Coach Rassie Erasmus is expected to field a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers in the team lineup. Among the potential debutants are Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Sharks flanker Vincent Tshituka, and Scarlets hooker Marnus van der Merwe.
New Faces in the Mix
In addition to the uncapped players, Sharks utility back Ethan Hooker is also in contention for a spot in the starting lineup. Players like Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Wilco Louw, and Ruan Nortje, who have seen limited game time in recent years, could also feature in the match against the Barbarians.
Returning to the national team setup is scrum-half Faf de Klerk, adding experience to the squad. Uncapped players Neethling Fouche and Cobus Wiese are also vying for a chance to make their mark in the Springbok jersey.
Balance of Youth and Experience
While Erasmus is keen to test out new combinations and give opportunities to emerging talent, he is mindful of the need for seasoned players to provide stability on the field. The Barbarians, led by coach Robbie Deans, boast a lineup of international stars and will pose a formidable challenge to the Springboks.
As the team shifts its focus to Cape Town for the upcoming match, Erasmus will finalize his matchday squad on Tuesday. The blend of youth and experience in the selection reflects the coach’s strategy of building depth and competitiveness within the squad.
