Six Springboks Set To Light Up London In Barbarians Clash Against All Blacks XV

It’s going to be a proudly South African affair in London this weekend as six Springboks join a 17-strong South African contingent for the Barbarians’ clash against the All Blacks XV. The legendary invitational side will once again blend flair, fire, and friendship with a dash of Mzansi muscle leading the charge.

South African Power In The Pack

Double World Cup winner Bongi Mbonambi headlines the South African lineup, taking his place at hooker. He’s joined in the front row by Asenathi Ntlabakanye, while dynamic loose forward Evan Roos anchors the scrum at No. 8.

At flyhalf, Rob du Preez will be tasked with steering the Barbarians’ attack, adding his trademark composure and tactical kicking to the mix. On the bench, Andre Hugo-Venter and Batho Hlekani both known for their physicality and energy round off the Bok presence.

Captaining the side is Hanro Liebenberg, the Brackenfell-born Leicester Tigers stalwart, who embodies the grit and leadership that South African rugby is known for.

A Team Built On Spirit And Storytelling

The Barbarians have long been a celebration of global rugby culture a space where players from different nations come together to play for the love of the game. Head coach Pat Lam says that spirit has been alive all week.

“It’s been an awesome week with so many guys experiencing the Barbarians for the first time,” Lam shared. “The challenge now is coming together as a group to take on a top-quality All Blacks XV side. Saturday will be a celebration of rugby and of the bonds we’ve built.”

The Barbarians’ lineup also features international stars like England’s Max Mallins at fullback, Argentina’s Matias Moroni, and South Africa’s own speedsters Werner Kok and Leolin Zas on the wings promising a backline packed with attacking intent.

Why This Match Matters For South Africans

For South African fans, the Barbarians match isn’t just an exhibition game it’s a reminder of how far local talent has travelled and triumphed. From township rugby fields to Twickenham, the presence of 17 South Africans in one of rugby’s most celebrated sides underscores the nation’s deep rugby culture.

Social media has already been buzzing with excitement, with one fan on X (formerly Twitter) writing, “Only the Barbarians could turn a friendly into a South African takeover. Go Bokke!”

The Final Word

As the Barbarians prepare to face the All Blacks XV, the match promises to be more than a clash of talent it’s a show of camaraderie, character, and creativity.

For fans back home, Saturday’s fixture is another chance to celebrate South Africa’s enduring rugby excellence whether it’s Mbonambi’s precision, Roos’s power, or Zas’s pace.

Rugby may be played in London this weekend, but it’ll have a distinctly South African heartbeat.

For more rugby news and updates follow: SA Rugby Mag and Africapicks 

{Source:SABC Sport}

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