Willie le Roux Hits 100 Springbok Caps as Moerat Leads New-Look Team Against Italy

A milestone moment in Gqeberha as a Bok legend celebrates a century of Test appearances

This weekend’s Test in Gqeberha will be far more than just another game; it’s a career-defining moment for Willie le Roux, who becomes only the eighth Springbok in history to earn 100 Test caps.

Le Roux, now 34, made his international debut against Italy in 2013. Eleven years later, he’ll pull on the green and gold against the same opponents, this time as a centurion and a symbol of consistency, flair, and rugby intelligence.

“Willie’s been a rock in our backline for more than a decade,” said Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus. “This milestone is a tribute to his impact on and off the field.”

Moerat leads the charge as Boks shuffle the deck

With Siya Kolisi unavailable due to a minor injury, Salmaan Moerat steps into the captain’s role for the first time in 2025. The team itself looks vastly different from last weekend’s 42–24 win over Italy at Loftus Versfeld.

Only seven players from that starting line-up retain their spots. Erasmus has opted for heavy rotation, a move that blends tactical planning with long-term vision.

“We’re building for the future,” Erasmus explained. “This group has 13 World Cup winners, and now we’re testing depth, combinations and leadership.”

Big names return and new ones rise

Among the returning starters are Makazole Mapimpi, Canan Moodie, Grant Williams, and Pieter-Steph du Toit. The Boks have strength down the spine, explosive pace on the wings, and plenty of muscle in the loose trio.

On the bench, three players could earn their first Springbok caps: Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Cobus Wiese, and Ethan Hooker. All three are expected to get game time as Erasmus rotates with an eye on the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Image 1: BokSquad

Italy’s fire, South Africa’s focus

Italy’s performance last week caught some eyes, and the Boks know they’ll need to be sharper this time around.

“They’ll be physical, no question,” said Erasmus. “But we also know our own standards weren’t good enough. This weekend, we expect a big shift.”

Springbok fans across Mzansi have already taken to social media to celebrate Le Roux’s achievement, with tributes pouring in. “Willie’s been our steady hand, the silent general at the back,” wrote one fan on X. “A true legend.”

The bigger picture

This match isn’t just about one milestone or one result. It’s a signal that the Springboks are evolving, balancing experience with new blood and setting the tone for what’s to come in 2025 and beyond.

As Le Roux takes the field for the 100th time, one thing is certain: South Africa will be right behind him.

Confirmed Springbok Squad vs Italy (13 July 2025)

Starting XV:
15 Willie le Roux, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Canan Moodie, 12 Andre Esterhuizen, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Manie Libbok, 9 Grant Williams, 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 Marco van Staden, 5 Ruan Nortje, 4 Salmaan Moerat (captain), 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Malcolm Marx, 1 Thomas du Toit

Replacements:
16 Jan-Hendrik Wessels, 17 Ox Nche, 18 Asenathi Ntlabakanye, 19 Cobus Wiese, 20 Evan Roos, 21 Cobus Reinach, 22 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 23 Ethan Hooker

Also read: Desiree Ellis Reflects on Hard Fought Win Over Ghana

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Source: SABC Sport

Featured Image: BusinessLIVE