A new Springbok era will take shape under the Wembley lights this weekend as former Junior Bok captain Zachary Porthen earns his first Test cap against Japan in London, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The 21-year-old front-row powerhouse will not only debut for the national team but will also etch his name into the record books as the youngest prop to represent the Boks in the professional era. His selection headlines Rassie Erasmus’ matchday 23 for the opening clash of the November Internationals, a lineup that blends youth, experience, and familiarity.
Erasmus has stuck with the core group that recently secured back-to-back Rugby Championship titles, naming 16 players who featured in the tense 29-27 win over Argentina earlier this month. The settled squad is reinforced by the return of several key figures who missed recent fixtures through injury and personal matters.
Kurt-Lee Arendse, Franco Mostert, and Lood de Jager reclaim their starting spots, while Gerhard Steenekamp and Johan Grobbelaar return to the bench after lengthy absences. André Esterhuizen, the versatile centre-turned-forward, again offers a flexible option from the bench, capable of filling gaps in either the pack or backline.
The front row boasts immense firepower, with Ox Nche and Malcolm Marx packing down alongside debutant Porthen. Behind them, RG Snyman and De Jager reunite as the lock pairing, while captain Siya Kolisi leads a loose trio completed by Mostert and Jasper Wiese.
At halfback, Cobus Reinach and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will steer the attack, supported by Arendse and Ethan Hooker out wide. Cheslin Kolbe, known for his speed and creativity on the wing, will instead wear the No.15 jersey. The midfield features the seasoned combination of Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel, both familiar faces to Japanese rugby fans thanks to their club careers abroad.
The replacements bench carries a mix of power and flair. Grobbelaar, Steenekamp, and Wilco Louw form the reserve front row, while Ruan Nortje and Esterhuizen offer depth among the forwards. Kwagga Smith’s inclusion adds energy to the loose trio, with Grant Williams and Manie Libbok expected to inject attacking spark late on.
Erasmus noted the strategic advantage of having six squad members currently playing in Japan, believing their local knowledge could prove vital. ‘Their experience in that league will help us,” he explained. “But Japan also knows them well, so it cuts both ways.’
On Porthen’s call-up, Erasmus praised the youngster’s composure and skill. ‘He’s shown his quality in the URC and with the Junior Boks,’ he said. ‘This is the perfect game for him to show what he can do. It’ll be a challenge, but he’s surrounded by players who’ll guide him through it.’
Turning attention to the opposition, Erasmus warned against underestimating Japan, coached by the ever-tactical Eddie Jones. ‘They’re a quality side,’ he said. ‘We all remember 2015, and they were impressive again in 2019. They pushed Australia close last weekend, so we’ll have to be sharp in every department.’
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Picture: David Rogers / Gallo Images
