After cruising to a dominant 54-7 win over the Barbarians with eight tries to one, the Springboks now turn their attention to their first official Test of the year — a clash against Italy in Pretoria. All eyes are on captain Siya Kolisi, who is expected to be fit and ready to lead the team.
Kolisi missed the Barbarians match due to a minor neck strain, but the team insists this was purely precautionary.
“We always want players to be 100% for a Test match,” said assistant coach Mzwandile Stick. “Siya has a stiff neck — not serious — but there’s no need to risk him unnecessarily. We’ll give him time.”
Test Selections Taking Shape
Following the Barbarians game, head coach Rassie Erasmus revealed that the squads for both upcoming Tests against Italy have already been outlined. He praised some standout performances but emphasized the need to strike the right balance when finalizing the matchday 23.
“We’re not going to get ahead of ourselves,” Erasmus explained. “A few players showed they’re ready, but we’ll integrate them carefully. Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel are still building match fitness, and Kurt-Lee Arendse hasn’t had a lot of game time recently.”
Meanwhile, Pieter-Steph du Toit — recovering from shoulder surgery since November — could make his long-awaited return in the second Italy Test at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
