VIDEO: Springboks' fresh firepower targets final tour statement
CARDIFF, WALES: The Springboks are seeking one last statement on their end-of-year tour, with a rebuilt front row looming and fresh faces thrust into the fire.
South Africa’s depth will be tested against a Welsh side desperate to salvage pride. For the Boks, this isn’t just another stop on tour – it’s the final examination of a squad held together by grit, adaptability, and the relentless demand to deliver, no matter who pulls on the jersey.
With Thomas du Toit, Malcolm Marx, and Boan Venter not available, the chances are that Johan Grobbelaar will get another run at hooker with Bongi Mbonambi coming off the bench.
Youngster Zachary Porthen is likely to get another opportunity on tour, while Asenathi Ntlabakanye has been patiently waiting for his turn and could get his first start against the Welsh.
Among the locks, it is fair to expect Franco Mostert to get a run, especially after his performance against Wales in the end-of-year test last year at the Principality Stadium.
South Africa tore through a struggling Welsh side 45-12, with Franco Mostert and Eben Etzebeth crossing the tryline within the opening minutes.
With little more than five minutes on the clock, Franco Mostert was away down the right wing to score, and before the home side knew it, Eben Etzebeth was doing likewise down the left thanks to an inside pass from wing Kurt-Lee Arendse for a 12-0 lead.
Heading into their fifth game on tour, the Springboks will be without the services of Marx, Du Toit, Venter, Lood de Jager (who is still serving a suspension for a dangerous tackle), RG Snyman, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Grant Williams, Handre Pollard, Manie Libbok, Jesse Kriel, Cheslin Kolbe, and Edwill van der Merwe, who have all returned to their provincial unions and clubs.
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Grobbelaar isn’t fazed by the constant changes in the front row and having to adapt to different players on either side of him.
“I’m looking forward to maybe some new combinations, some new guys getting an opportunity.
“I think what has helped us is training together these last few weeks,” he said. “We’ve been mixing players, so we really got to know each other, even the younger guys whom I haven’t played with a lot.
“So this weekend – with some new combinations – I’m sure we’ll be ready for the battle.”
The Bok hooker also added that there will be no lack of motivation heading into this clash, even though the Welsh side has been struggling with form for the last two or three seasons.
“Wales have some really good players. They scored some beautiful tries against the All Blacks last weekend.
“They have a good skill set at the back, good attacking skills, and they are always a threat under the high ball.”
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