Springboks Hand Test Debuts to Van der Merwe and Hendrikse for Wales Clash

In their first match since lifting the Webb Ellis Cup in November, the South Africa national rugby union team have named a powerful starting lineup to take on Wales at Twickenham on Saturday. Rassie Erasmus’ side will feature two debutants, with wing Edwill van der Merwe and fly-half Jordan Hendrikse set to earn their first Test caps.

Despite the absence of several key players, including Cheslin Kolbe and Lukhanyo Am due to injuries, the Springboks have retained the core of their 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning squad. Captain Pieter-Steph du Toit, lock Eben Etzebeth, and scrum-half Faf de Klerk are among the experienced heads in the starting XV, while tighthead prop Vincent Koch will earn his 50th international cap.

Selection Challenges

The Springboks’ selection has been influenced by the ongoing United Rugby Championship final, with no players from the Bulls available for this fixture due to their appearance against Glasgow in Pretoria on the same day.

“We knew what challenges we would face in selecting the squad for this training camp and the Wales Test, but as a team we turned it into a fantastic opportunity to blood a few youngsters and expose them to the national set-up,” said Erasmus.

Building Squad Depth

The South Africa head coach emphasized the importance of building squad depth, with the upcoming match against Portugal in Bloemfontein also providing an opportunity to assess the team’s talent pool.

With Wales seeking to end a six-match losing streak against the Springboks, the stage is set for an intriguing clash as the reigning world champions aim to continue their recent dominance over the Welsh national rugby union team.

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