Siya, Rassie and the Boks Fired Up for Blockbuster 2025 Season

Springbok energy is already hitting match-day levels—and the season hasn’t even started yet.

With just days to go before the Springboks launch their 2025 season in Cape Town, it’s clear that the mood in camp is more “go-time” than “pre-season”. Coaches Rassie Erasmus and Felix Jones, along with captain Siya Kolisi, are brimming with anticipation as the squad wraps up its second week of training in Johannesburg.

Their first clash? A history-making face-off against the Barbarians at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, 28 June.

A Team Reunited and Hungrier Than Ever

For Kolisi and the players, it’s more than just another Test window. It’s a reunion of brothers. After months apart at club level, the squad has reassembled with a tangible sense of purpose.

“For most of us, it’s hard to say goodbye at the end of a season,” said Kolisi. “So being back in green and gold, seeing guys like Lood de Jager again after injury—it just lifts the vibe.”

While some players are still filtering in due to European club commitments, including RG Snyman and Handré Pollard, most of the squad is already firing on all cylinders. Training sessions have reportedly been so intense they’re nearly replicating match conditions.

All Eyes on Cape Town for a First Of Its’s Kind Encounter

For the first time ever, the Barbarians will play the Springboks on South African soil, battling it out for the Qatar Airways Cup. Known for their unpredictable, free-flowing style, the BaaBaas promise to offer a thrilling opening contest.

“It’s the kind of match that tests us early,” Erasmus said. “But our focus is on our systems, our combinations. That first game will set the tone for the season.”

Their squad includes global rugby stars, making it more than just a friendly. Erasmus stressed that it’s the perfect way to reboot after alignment camps and intense fitness sessions.

What’s Next: A Tough Incoming Series Ahead

Following the Barbarians match, the Boks face Italy in back-to-back clashes in Pretoria and Gqeberha (5 and 12 July), before hosting Georgia in Nelspruit on 19 July.

Italy is no pushover, warns Erasmus.

“They’ve shocked teams before—including us—so we’re not taking anything for granted. And Georgia are always physical. It’ll be a good yardstick for where we are.”

With World Cup-winning experience on the touchline and veterans like Kolisi setting the tone, the Springboks are clearly preparing to raise the bar again.

New Names, Same High Standards

Among the more intriguing updates is the call-up of Boan Venter, a powerful loosehead currently playing for Edinburgh. Erasmus pointed to his consistent form and understanding of SA-style scrummaging as key reasons for the selection.

“He’s played well in Europe and understands our DNA. We don’t bring guys in just to fill gaps—we choose players we believe can contribute immediately.”

This comes as a response to injury setbacks for props Gerhard Steenekamp and Ntuthuko Mchunu, both recovering ahead of the Rugby Championship later this year.

Felix Jones Returns to Familiar Ground

After a short stint with England post-World Cup, coach Felix Jones is back with the Springboks setup. Reflecting on the team’s growth since 2019, he noted how much the culture and structure have evolved.

“There’s a real drive to keep improving. We’re not just defending titles—we want to set new benchmarks,” said Jones.

Cape Town Countdown

The Boks will briefly break camp on Thursday to spend time with family, before regrouping in Cape Town on Sunday for the blockbuster curtain-raiser.

On social media, fans are already rallying. “Cape Town is going to be electric,” one fan posted. “First time seeing the BaaBaas live—bring it on!”

Between the emotion of reunion, the challenge of the Barbarians, and the road ahead in July, the Springboks’ 2025 season is already crackling with promise.

And if this intensity is just the beginning, South African rugby fans are in for a wild, wonderful ride.

Source:Sabc Sport

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