Former Junior Springbok captain Zachary Porthen is set for a monumental career milestone. He will earn his first Springbok cap against Japan this Saturday. The match takes place at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium....Click to Read More >>➤

This debut is particularly notable. Porthen will become the youngest prop to make his Test debut for the Springboks in the professional era. His inclusion headlines several strategic shifts in the team lineup.

A significant backline change sees Cheslin Kolbe moving to fullback. This adjustment comes as a direct result of an injury to regular fullback Damian Willemse. The versatile Franco Mostert gets the start at blindside flank.

Key players return to the starting XV for this encounter. Kurt-Lee Arendse (wing), Franco Mostert (utility forward), and Lood de Jager (lock) are all back in the fold. Their return follows absences due to injuries and a family bereavement.

The replacements bench also sees familiar faces. Gerhard Steenekamp (prop) and Johan Grobbelaar (hooker) are back among the substitutes. They last featured for the national team during the 2024 Castle Lager Outgoing Tour.

André Esterhuizen adds a dynamic option off the bench. Named as a back-up loose forward, his hybrid playing style offers flexibility. He could also be drafted into the backline if the situation demands it during the game.

A Powerful Pack Takes Shape

The selected forward pack promises to deliver immense physicality. The front row consists of Ox Nche, debutant Zachary Porthen, and Malcolm Marx. This trio combines experience with exciting new talent.

The second row features a formidable locking partnership. RG Snyman will team up with the returning Lood de Jager in the engine room. Captain Siya Kolisi completes a powerful loose trio with Mostert and Jasper Wiese.

This selection underscores the coaching staff’s intent to dominate up front. The blend of youth and experience across the pack is designed to set a strong platform. The Springboks will look to this unit to establish early control.

Backline Dynamics and Experience

The backline showcases a mix of established stars and emerging talent. Cobus Reinach and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will form the halfback pairing. Their combination will be crucial in dictating the team’s tempo and attacking shape.

On the wings, the exciting Kurt-Lee Arendse pairs with Ethan Hooker. The experienced Japan-based centre duo of Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel reunites in the midfield. Their understanding and defensive organization will be vital.

Cheslin Kolbe’s shift to fullback is a key talking point. His world-class attacking ability from the back field adds a new dimension to the Springboks’ counter-attacking threat. This move compensates for the absence of Damian Willemse.

Impact Options from the Bench

The replacements bench is loaded with players capable of influencing the game. Grobbelaar, Steenekamp, and Wilco Louw provide front-row cover. Ruan Nortje is the designated lock cover.

The loose forward cover is particularly interesting. André Esterhuizen is listed as flanker cover, while the dynamic Kwagga Smith offers further back-row options. This provides the coaching staff with significant tactical flexibility in the forwards.

Grant Williams and Manie Libbok are the backline replacements. Both playmakers are known for their ability to inject pace and creativity in the latter stages. Their role in closing out the match will be crucial.

Springbok Team to Face Japan in London:

15 – Cheslin Kolbe (Tokyo Sungoliath) – 46 caps, 126 points
14 – Ethan Hooker (Hollywoodbets Sharks) – 5 caps, 0 points
13 – Jesse Kriel (Canon Eagles) – 84 caps, 95 points
12 – Damian de Allende (Wild Knights) – 93 caps, 55 points ...Click to Read More >>➤