Charles Esther
The Springboks are gearing up for an exciting home fixture list beginning with their first-ever match against the Barbarians on South African soil.
The historic showdown will take place at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, 28 June 2025.
Following this exhibition match, the Springboks will face Italy in back-to-back Test matches.
The first Test will be hosted in Pretoria on 5 July, followed by a second clash in Gqeberha on 12 July.
They will then complete their July international window with a Test against Georgia in Nelspruit on 19 July.
These games are expected to set the tone for a highly competitive year ahead.
Rugby Championship and November Tour Await
While the July matches are key for preparation, the real test will begin once the Rugby Championship kicks off.
The annual tournament will see the Springboks face southern hemisphere rivals New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina.
Later in the year, the Springboks will embark on their traditional northern hemisphere tour in November.
This tour is expected to feature high-stakes matches against major European nations.
Elrigh Louw Out for Entire Season
The Springboks have already suffered a blow before their season begins.
Loose forward Elrigh Louw has been ruled out for the entire year due to a serious leg injury.
Louw, who can play both No. 8 and blindside flank, was considered a versatile asset in the forward pack.
His absence opens the door for emerging talents like Vincent Tshituka, Evan Roos, Juarno Augustus, and Cobus Wiese.
Key players Jasper Wiese and Pieter-Steph du Toit are expected to anchor the loose trio during the Rugby Championship.
Malherbe Injury Raises Concerns at Tighthead
In another worrying development, tighthead prop Frans Malherbe may miss the entire 2025 season due to a persistent back injury.
With Malherbe sidelined, veteran Vincent Koch will be relied upon for his experience in the front row.
Thomas du Toit, Wilco Louw, and newcomers Asenathi Ntlabakanye and Neethling Fouche will also have the opportunity to earn Test caps.
Du Toit’s versatility as both a loosehead and tighthead prop is a major asset, especially with Trevor Nyakane unavailable until late 2025.
At age 36, it remains uncertain whether Nyakane will return to the Springbok setup at all.
Full Springbok Squad for 2025 Season
The Springbok squad features a deep pool of experienced internationals and exciting new faces across all positions.
Forwards: Lood de Jager, Jean-Luc du Preez, Thomas du Toit, Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Vincent Koch, Bongi Mbonambi, Ox Nche, Vincent Tshituka, Neethling Fouche, Salmaan Moerat, Evan Roos, Jean Kleyn, Wilco Louw, Marco van Staden, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Cobus Wiese, Ruan Nortje, Malcolm Marx, Franco Mostert, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman, Marnus van der Merwe, Boan Venter, Jasper Wiese.
Backs: Damian de Allende, Faf de Klerk, Jesse Kriel, Andre Esterhuizen, Aphelele Fassi, Makazole Mapimpi, Grant Williams, Ethan Hooker, Manie Libbok, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Damian Willemse, Cheslin Kolbe, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Willie le Roux, Canan Moodie, Handre Pollard, Cobus Reinach, Morne van den Berg, Edwill van der Merwe.
Fans Eager to See Springboks in Action
Supporters across the country will be closely watching how the team performs under pressure.
With a packed schedule and key players unavailable, the Springboks will need to rely on squad depth and strong leadership.
How many games do you think the Springboks will win this year?
