In a surprising last-minute change, Siya Kolisi has been ruled out of the Springboks’ season-opening encounter against the Barbarians this Saturday at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium, with Jesse Kriel taking over the captaincy role.
Late Injury Blow for Siya Kolisi
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus was forced to reshuffle his plans after Kolisi picked up a minor injury, referred to as a “niggle” in a team statement. Kolisi, South Africa’s two-time World Cup-winning captain, had been named to lead the team earlier in the week but will now sit out as a precautionary measure.
The 32-year-old flanker was expected to start in the No 6 jersey in what would have been his first appearance of the season. However, his absence has prompted a change in the loose forward combination, with Marco van Staden stepping into the starting XV in Kolisi’s place.
Kriel Takes the Reins
Jesse Kriel, a veteran of 79 Test caps, will wear the captain’s armband for the first time in his Springbok career. While this leadership role is significant, it’s worth noting that Kriel will not officially become South Africa’s 67th Test captain, as the match against the Barbarians is not recognised as a full Test.
Still, the occasion holds weight for Kriel and the team as they begin their 2025 campaign. Having featured in three World Cups (2015, 2019, and 2023), the 30-year-old brings a wealth of experience and composure to the squad. His appointment as captain underscores Erasmus’ trust in his leadership qualities, particularly in the absence of Kolisi.
Uncapped Talent Given a Chance
Saturday’s fixture will also mark a special moment for four uncapped players: Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Vincent Tshituka, Marnus van der Merwe, and Neethling Fouche. Ntlabakanye and Tshituka will start, while van der Merwe and Fouche are listed among the replacements.
Erasmus praised the newcomers during the team announcement earlier this week: “Asenathi, Vincent, Neethling, and Marnus have all been impressive at training and for their respective franchises this season. We hope to see them bring that same energy to the field.”
Springboks vs Barbarians Full Squad Revealed
Despite Kolisi’s withdrawal, the rest of the starting lineup remains unchanged. The Springboks will field a blend of youth and experience, with exciting backs like Cheslin Kolbe, Damian de Allende, and Kurt-Lee Arendse providing attacking firepower.
The full Springboks squad to face the Barbarians is:
Starting XV
15 Aphelele Fassi
14 Cheslin Kolbe
13 Jesse Kriel (captain)
12 Damian de Allende
11 Kurt-Lee Arendse
10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
9 Morne van den Berg
8 Jean-Luc du Preez
7 Vincent Tshituka
6 Marco van Staden
5 Lood de Jager
4 Jean Kleyn
3 Asenathi Ntlabakanye
2 Malcolm Marx
1 Ox Nche
Replacements
16 Marnus van der Merwe
17 Jan-Hendrik Wessels
18 Neethling Fouche
19 Franco Mostert
20 Kwagga Smith
21 Cobus Reinach
22 Manie Libbok
23 Andre Esterhuizen
Barbarians Bring Star Power
The Barbarians, led by Irish legend Peter O’Mahony, will present a formidable challenge with a line-up that includes international stars such as All Blacks stalwarts Sam Cane and Mark Tele’a. The clash promises high-paced rugby and a thrilling spectacle for fans in Cape Town and across the country.
A Chance to Impress Ahead of Busy Test Schedule
Following this non-Test fixture, the Springboks will shift focus to a packed Test calendar, including two clashes with Italy and a one-off against Georgia before heading into the Rugby Championship. While Kolisi’s absence is a setback, it opens the door for fringe players to prove themselves and for new leaders to step up—starting with Jesse Kriel this Saturday.
Related article: World Rugby Rankings: Springboks Maintaining World No.1 Ranking
