Springboks Run Riot in Cape Town to Launch 2025 Season in Style

The Springboks didn’t just return to action — they arrived with a roar. In front of a Cape Town crowd braving the rain, South Africa’s rugby champions dismantled the Barbarians 54-7 in their 2025 season opener, delivering a statement performance that blended World Cup pedigree with the promise of the next generation.

It was a wet Saturday at the Cape Town Stadium, but it did little to dampen the Boks’ firepower or the festive energy of the home fans, who cheered as eight tries rained down on a struggling Baabaas outfit.

A Seamless Return For the Green and Gold

South Africa looked anything but rusty. From the first whistle, Rassie Erasmus’s men controlled territory, tempo and possession. Returning stars like Malcolm Marx, Cheslin Kolbe and Damian de Allende anchored the effort, while newcomers like Vincent Tshituka and Asenathi Ntlabakanye used the stage to announce themselves.

Marx opened the scoring with a classic line-out maul finish, before Kolbe added flair with a perfectly-timed finish off a kick from Aphelele Fassi. The young and exciting Sasha Feinberg-Mngomezulu converted from out wide and nearly scored himself minutes later with a cheeky dummy that caught the Barbarians napping.

By the time Tshituka bulldozed over for his first Springbok try, the Barbarians were scrambling. The first half ended 19-0, and the second would only get uglier for the visitors.

New Faces, Same Intensity

With a healthy lead, Erasmus turned to his bench — and the impact was immediate. The “Bomb Squad” brought pace and physicality, with Manie Libbok and Cobus Reinach driving play forward before Jan-Hendrik Wessels dotted down for try number four.

The best try of the night came minutes later, as a flowing move from deep inside the Springbok half saw forwards and backs combine beautifully, culminating in a slick finish from Kurt-Lee Arendse.

From there, it was a flood of green jerseys and tries. Kolbe dazzled under the high ball to set up Lood de Jager, while Tshituka grabbed his second of the night in a breakout game for the Sharks flanker.

The Barbarians found a late consolation through France’s Melvyn Jaminet, but it was de Allende who had the last word, scoring the eighth and final try to put a bow on a near-perfect night for the Boks.

What This Means for the Springboks in 2025

While the Barbarians are traditionally more festive than fierce, the Springboks treated the match with purpose. It wasn’t just about the scoreline — it was about rhythm, chemistry and giving a platform to the next wave of players.

Vincent Tshituka’s performance in particular is worth noting. After a long eligibility wait, the Congolese-born flanker didn’t just make his debut — he delivered on years of hype with two powerful finishes and standout breakdown work.

The same goes for Asenathi Ntlabakanye, who held his own in the scrum and made bruising carries that fans have come to expect from Bok props.

Social Media Reaction and Fan Sentiment

Rugby Twitter lit up during the game, with many praising the team’s fitness, fluidity, and depth. “This doesn’t look like a first game of the season,” one user posted, while others lauded Kolbe’s consistency and the return of Rassie-ball in full flight.

Fans at the stadium were equally delighted, dancing in the rain as the team ran riot. For many, the performance was a reminder of why the Springboks continue to be a source of pride — not just for winning, but for how they win.

Looking Ahead

With the Barbarians game now behind them, attention turns to tougher tests later this year, including clashes against Ireland and New Zealand. But if this Cape Town curtain-raiser is anything to go by, the Boks are locked in and ready to build another memorable season.

The Springboks are back — and they’re not easing into anything.

Source:Sabc Sport

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com