Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has named an experimental 23-man squad for South Africa’s clash against the Barbarians at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday, 20 June 2026.
The matchday squad includes a surprise selection at flyhalf, the return of a veteran scrumhalf and five uncapped players who could make their Springbok debuts.
Quan Horn handed flyhalf role
The biggest talking point is Erasmus’ decision to start natural fullback Quan Horn at flyhalf.
With several playmakers unavailable through injury, the Springbok coach has opted to test Horn’s versatility and adaptability in the No 10 jersey.
The selection marks one of the most intriguing tactical moves of the season as South Africa continues to build depth ahead of a busy international campaign.
Faf de Klerk returns
Veteran scrumhalf Faf de Klerk returns to the national setup for the first time since 2025.
The 34-year-old will provide experience from the bench alongside a squad that features several younger players.
Five uncapped players included
The squad contains five uncapped players, with former Junior Springbok captain Riley Norton earning a starting role at lock.
Norton will partner experienced campaigner Franco Mostert in the second row.
Springbok starting XV
15 Aphelele Fassi
14 Cheslin Kolbe
13 Jesse Kriel
12 Andre Esterhuizen
11 Edwill van der Merwe
10 Quan Horn
9 Grant Williams
8 Jasper Wiese
7 Pieter-Steph du Toit
6 Siya Kolisi (captain)
5 Franco Mostert
4 Riley Norton
3 Carlos Sadi
2 Andre-Hugo Venter
1 Ox Nche
Notable bench selection
Among the replacements is returning scrumhalf Faf de Klerk.
Rugby double-header in Gqeberha
The Springboks’ encounter with the Barbarians forms part of a rugby double-header at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
Saturday, 20 June 2026
- 12:00 SAST: South Africa A vs Zimbabwe Sables
- 15:00 SAST: Springboks vs Barbarians
Both matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
One South African in the Barbarians squad
Interestingly, the Barbarians squad, coached by Scott Robertson, features just one South African player.
Warrick Gelant, currently with the Stormers, is set to line up against his fellow countrymen in Gqeberha.
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