How many South Africans will play against Springboks?
· The South African
It’s always tricky to know exactly what the Barbarians will offer as they prepare for another game against the Springboks, with 19 internationals from 11 different nations coming together for the Gqeberha clash on Saturday.
Last year, the Springboks outplayed the Barbarians to secure a comfortable 54-7 victory to claim the Qatar Airways Cup for a third time in as many seasons.
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The Barbarians have caused some surprises in the past, but the touring team generally lacks cohesion as an invitational side is brought together for a marquee fixture that generally includes plenty of social elements before and after the game.
When looking at the current incarnation of the Barbarians for this Saturday’s clash against the Springboks, it is interesting to take note of the South Africans who will be involved in the match.
Springboks prepared for high octane battle
At fullback, Warrick Gelant is the only player in this line up currently capped by and representing the Springboks.
The World Cup-winning utility back last played for South Africa at Test level in 2022, and the attacking maverick will hope to give account of himself on Saturday in a contest that should suit his style of play.
Born and Raised in South Africa, but playing for Scotland
Duhan van der Merwe: Born in George, Van der Merwe represented South Africa U20 before moving north and becoming a Test veteran for Scotland. He will start on the leftwing this Saturday.
Oli Kebble: Born in Durban and the son of former Springbok prop Guy Kebble. The 33-year-old – who is back with the Stormers – won the Junior World Championship with SA U20 in 2012, but later qualified for and earned 12 caps for Scotland. The burly front rower is set to come off the bench against the Boks.
Barbarians team vs Boks
15 Warrick Gelant, 14 Andrew Kellaway, 13 Virimi Vakatawa, 12 Alex Nankivell, 11 Duhan van der Merwe, 10 Tomás Albornoz, 9 TJ Perenara (captain), 8 Miracle Fai’ilagi, 7 Lachlan Boshier, 6 Guido Petti, 5 Alex Moon, 4 Franco Molina, 3 D’Arcy Rae, 2 Elliot Dee, 1 Mayko Vivas
Replacements: 16 Leonel Oviedo, 17 Oli Kebble, 18 Pedro Delgado, 19 Izack Rodda, 20 Liam McConnell, 21 Santiago Arata, 22 Harry Plummer, 23 Tuidraki Samusamuvodre