Five uncapped players featured as the Springboks launched their 2026 season with a thrilling 80-31 victory over the Barbarians.
Gqeberha, South Africa (22 June 2026) – The Springbok season came back to life in front of a packed crowd in Gqeberha on Saturday, with thousands of fans turning Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium into a sea of green and gold as South Africa kicked off their 2026 campaign in spectacular fashion.
After months of anticipation, rugby supporters finally got their first glimpse of the world champions in action once again, and the team delivered. The atmosphere was electric from the outset as 26,398 fans welcomed the Boks back to the field.
Think of it as more than a match, but rather the start of another exciting Springbok season, with a fresh mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talent eager to make their mark in the famous green jersey.
Several new faces grabbed the opportunity with both hands. The Springbok side featured five uncapped players, including two current Junior Springboks, while a number of debutants coming off the bench also got their first taste of international rugby.
The match was an entertaining contest. The Barbarians, renowned for their attacking style and willingness to run from anywhere, showed exactly why they remain one of rugby’s most beloved invitational teams. Led by former All Black scrumhalf TJ Perenara, they crossed for five tries and repeatedly asked questions of the Springbok defence.
For a period in the first half, the visitors even threatened to turn the game into a genuine arm wrestle after clawing their way back from a heavy deficit. But whenever the Barbarians threatened, the Springboks found another gear.
South Africa ultimately ran in 12 tries in an 80-31 victory, with wings Edwill van der Merwe and Cheslin Kolbe among the standout performers.
The loudest cheers of the afternoon were often reserved for the new faces. Debutants Paul de Villiers, Vusi Moyo and Zachary Porthen all enjoyed memorable moments, while veteran scrumhalf Faf de Klerk also delighted supporters with a trademark try.
A new season is officially underway, the next generation has begun making its presence felt, and South African rugby fans have every reason to be excited about what lies ahead in the months to come.
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Bafana Hit Five Goals as AFCON Qualifying Campaign Takes FlightIt’s all over in The Bay, where the #Springboks put on an attacking masterclass. Thanks to the @Barbarian_FC for a great game of rugby 👊
Check out some of the match stats here: https://t.co/yAvmqWt1H0 🏉#ForeverGreenForeverGold pic.twitter.com/aKG5GfprUq
— Springboks (@Springboks) June 20, 2026
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