There’s a buzz of excitement in the air as the Springboks kick off their Incoming Series against Italy this Saturday in Pretoria.
And it’s not just because they’re playing at home — it’s also thanks to a mix of returning stars and a fresh face set to make his Test debut.
Vincent Tshituka Gets His Big Break
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has given the nod to Vincent Tshituka, who will earn his first cap in a strong and seasoned matchday squad.
Tshituka slots into the No. 7 jersey, bringing new energy to the Bok back row.
And with Siya Kolisi sitting this one out due to a minor injury, Jesse Kriel takes over captaincy duties again — making him the 67th man to lead the team in green and gold.
Eben Etzebeth is also back from injury and will support Kriel as vice-captain.
Welcome Back, Willemse, Faf, and Wiese
The return of some familiar faces is giving fans reason to cheer.
Damian Willemse will feature for the first time since the Rugby World Cup final, having battled through injuries and a suspension that kept him out of the recent Barbarians game.
Scrumhalf Faf de Klerk is also back after recovering from a long-term injury that sidelined him in 2024, and Jasper Wiese is another key returnee to the Bok lineup.
A Familiar Look at the Back
Erasmus has mostly kept things consistent in the backline.
Willemse will slot in at fullback, while Handre Pollard returns at flyhalf and links up with Morne van den Berg at scrumhalf.
Out wide, Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse remain dangerous threats on the wings, while Kriel and Damian de Allende continue their partnership in midfield — a combination fans know and trust.
Changes in the Forward Pack
There are a few tweaks up front. Wiese steps in for Jean-Luc du Preez, who’s on standby as his family prepares to welcome a new baby.
Etzebeth replaces the injured Jean Kleyn, and Wilco Louw comes in at tighthead prop to anchor the front row alongside Ox Nche and Malcolm Marx.
Power Bench with a Milestone on the Horizon
Erasmus has opted for a 6-2 split on the bench — six forwards and two backs — to give the Boks muscle for the latter stages.
Veteran Bongi Mbonambi is on standby for hooker duties, supported by Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Vincent Koch. RG Snyman, Franco Mostert, and Kwagga Smith round out the forward reinforcements.
In the backs, de Klerk is joined by Willie le Roux, who is just one appearance away from joining the elite 100-cap club.
If he gets game time on Saturday, he’ll notch up his 99th Test.
Full Springbok Squad to Face Italy
Starting XV:
15. Damian Willemse
14. Cheslin Kolbe
13. Jesse Kriel (captain)
12. Damian de Allende
11. Kurt-Lee Arendse
10. Handre Pollard
9. Morne van den Berg
8. Jasper Wiese
7. Vincent Tshituka
6. Marco van Staden
5. Lood de Jager
4. Eben Etzebeth (vice-captain)
3. Wilco Louw
2. Malcolm Marx
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Ox Nche
Replacements:
16. Bongi Mbonambi
17. Jan-Hendrik Wessels
18. Vincent Koch
19. RG Snyman
20. Franco Mostert
21. Kwagga Smith
22. Faf de Klerk
23. Willie le Roux
Who’s Your Pick to Win?
With a fiery mix of youth and experience, the Springboks are going all out.
But do you think they’ll take the win against Italy this Saturday?