Rassie Erasmus Unveils Exciting Springbok and SA ‘A’ Squads for Gqeberha Rugby Double-Header
Springbok Fans Can’t Wait
South African rugby supporters are in for a proper feast this Saturday, 20 June 2026. As the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha hosts a blockbuster double-header to kick-start another exciting season of international rugby.
First up, SA ‘A’ take on Zimbabwe at 12:00 SAST, before the Springboks face the Barbarians at 15:00 SAST. The match promises thrilling afternoon of rugby. Both matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
With Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus and SA ‘A’ coach Mzwandile Stick naming squads packed with World Cup winners. Established stars and some of South Africa’s brightest young prospects, one thing is clear. The depth of South African rugby remains frighteningly strong.
Springboks vs Barbarians: A Homecoming for Siya Kolisi
There will be a special feeling in the air when Siya Kolisi leads the Springboks onto the field in his home province.
The Zwide-born Bok captain missed the Springboks’ appearance in Gqeberha last year through injury. Making Saturday’s clash something of a homecoming for one of South Africa’s most beloved sporting figures.
The Springbok starting XV features a healthy mix of experience and youth:
15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Cheslin Kolbe, 13 Jesse Kriel, 12 André 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 Carlu Sadie, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ox Nche
Replacements: JJ Kotze, Ntuthuko Mchunu, Zachary Porthen, Ben-Jason Dixon, Paul de Villiers, Evan Roos, Faf de Klerk and Vusi Moyo.
For many Bok supporters, the biggest talking point will be the inclusion of several rising stars. Riley Norton, Carlu Sadie, JJ Kotze, Paul de Villiers and Vusi Moyo are among the youngsters being given an opportunity to show Erasmus what they can do in green and gold.
Don’t expect the old-school Bok supporters to complain, though. If there’s one thing South Africans love almost as much as winning rugby matches, it’s spotting the next future Springbok before everyone else does.
Quan Horn Gets His Chance
One of the more intriguing selections is Quan Horn at flyhalf.
Most rugby fans know Horn as a dynamic fullback for the Lions. But injuries have opened the door for him to step into the No.10 jersey. With Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu unavailable, Horn now has a golden opportunity to show his versatility against the famous Barbarians.
It is exactly the type of selection that has become synonymous with Erasmus. Bold enough to raise eyebrows, but usually backed by a long-term plan.
Injury Concerns? Not a Major Headache Yet
Like every international squad, the Springboks have had to deal with a few injury niggles.
Questions remain around players such as Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Kwagga Smith, Malcolm Marx and RG Snyman. However, Erasmus has consistently pointed to the depth within South African rugby as one of the team’s greatest strengths.
Few nations can lose world-class players and still call on proven internationals waiting in the wings. It is a luxury most countries would love to have.
Faf is Back!
Another welcome sight for Springbok supporters is the return of Faf de Klerk.
The World Cup-winning scrumhalf has not featured regularly for the Boks in recent months. His inclusion on the bench adds valuable experience and leadership to a squad that includes several newcomers.
When the game gets loose and the Barbarians start throwing the ball around from everywhere, don’t be surprised if Faf arrives with his usual energy levels set somewhere between “espresso” and “full generator mode.”
SA ‘A’ vs Zimbabwe: The Future of South African Rugby
The curtain-raiser between SA ‘A’ and Zimbabwe could be just as fascinating for rugby purists.
The SA ‘A’ starting team is:
15 Luan Giliomee, 14 Jaco Williams, 13 Markus Muller, 12 Lukhanyo Am, 11 Zekhethelo Siyaya, 10 Yaqeen Ahmed, 9 Haashim Pead, 8 Phepsi Buthelezi, 7 Bathobele Hlekani, 6 Emmanuel Tshituka, 5 Ruben van Heerden, 4 Vincent Tshituka (captain), 3 Neethling Fouché, 2 Siphosethu Mnebelele, 1 Boan Venter.
This side offers South African rugby supporters a glimpse into the future.
Several current Junior Springboks have been included, highlighting the strength of the country’s development structures. Players such as Haashim Pead, Yaqeen Ahmed, Bathobele Hlekani, Jurenzo Julius and Imad Khan represent the next generation hoping to force their way into future Springbok squads.
Meanwhile, Vincent Tshituka will captain the side as SA ‘A’ look to overcome a Zimbabwe. A team that is continuing its preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Stick has already warned that Zimbabwe will not be arriving in Gqeberha simply to make up the numbers.
The Bigger Picture for South African Rugby
Perhaps the most encouraging aspect for South African rugby supporters is what these squads say about the overall health of the game.
Even with a number of established Springboks unavailable through injury, workload management and club commitments. Erasmus has still been able to name a competitive squad packed with international quality.
That is the legacy of years of investment in South Africa’s rugby pathways. From schools rugby to the Junior Springboks, the URC franchises and the national setup, the conveyor belt of talent keeps rolling.
The result is that South African rugby enters another season with genuine optimism.
Saturday’s double-header in Gqeberha is about more than just two rugby matches. It is a celebration of the depth, talent and future of the game in South Africa.
And if the atmosphere at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is anything like we expect. The Boks and SA ‘A’ will be running out to a crowd ready to remind the rugby world that South Africa remains one of the sport’s true powerhouses.
Best Betting Sites for Rugby Betting
+ R15 free bet & 15 free spins
✓ Big sport variety
✓ Great odds
✓ Good betting options
+ 100 free spins
✓ Live betting
✓ Extensive coverage
✓ Fast payouts
Springbok squad 2026 FAQ’s
The Most Common Questions Answered
Responsible Gambling: Betting involves financial risk. Gambling can be addictive. Only bet what you can afford to lose. winners know when to stop. This content is for users 18+. The National Responsible Gambling Programme helpline: 0800 006 008 or WhatsApp “Help” to 076 675 0710. All platforms listed are licensed by the relevant South African provincial gambling boards.
NOBULL BETTING
South Africa’s honest betting site reviews. We test, verify, and rate, so you don’t have to. Independent, updated monthly, zero paid placements. By using this website, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. NoBull Betting provides independent betting information and editorial content for general information purposes only and does not offer financial or legal advice. We do not guarantee results or outcomes. You must be 18+ to use this site and to bet online.
© 2026 NoBull Betting · Affiliate disclosure: We earn commission when you click through and register. This does not affect our rankings. · 18+ only · Gamble responsibly.
Sibusiso loves all things sport and has been writing and living the game for the last ten years. Sibo can be found at his local when Liverpool or Pirates plays a match. He brings deep insights into upcoming football or rugby matches.