The Springboks kick off their 2025 international season with a blockbuster clash against the Barbarians at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town this Saturday, in a match that promises flair, physicality, and a dash of rugby nostalgia.
Set to kick off at 17h10, the match marks the Boks’ first outing of the year after an impressive 2024 season, which saw them notch up 11 wins in 13 Tests and clinch the Castle Lager Rugby Championship title. With the Qatar Airways Cup on the line — a trophy South Africa have held since defeating the All Blacks at Twickenham in 2023 — the encounter carries more weight than just a friendly fixture.
A Rivalry Reignited
This will be the ninth meeting between the Boks and the Barbarians, but the first ever to take place on South African soil. Until now, all previous matches have been hosted in Europe, with the Barbarians holding a narrow edge in the head-to-head: four wins to South Africa’s three, with one draw.
The storied rivalry dates back to 1952, when the two sides first met at Cardiff Arms Park — a game the Springboks won 17-3. However, the Barbarians struck back in 1961 with a 6-0 win at the same venue, setting the tone for a thrilling, decades-long battle steeped in tradition and unpredictability.
From the Boks’ last win over the Barbarians in 2000 to a dramatic 31-31 draw at Wembley in 2016, the fixture has consistently delivered entertainment. That last meeting saw the Boks, led by flyhalf Pat Lambie, fight back from a half-time deficit with late tries, including a crucial one from Rohan Janse van Rensburg in the dying minutes.
Familiar Faces, New Stakes
Several veterans from that 2016 clash remain in the Springbok squad today, including Malcolm Marx, Pieter-Steph du Toit, RG Snyman, and Jesse Kriel — who will captain the side this weekend in place of Siya Kolisi, who was withdrawn as a precaution.
The Barbarians, led once again by experienced coach Robbie Deans, arrive in Cape Town with flair and firepower. As ever, the invitational side promises attacking rugby and a celebration of the game’s spirit, but they’ll also be determined to notch a historic first win over the Springboks on African soil.
Formed in 1890 with the aim of promoting camaraderie, flair, and sportsmanship, the Barbarians have long been rugby’s most beloved rebels. Saturday’s match offers them a rare chance to make history outside their European strongholds.
Momentum on the Line
For South Africa, this match serves as crucial preparation ahead of the Castle Lager Incoming Series against Italy and Georgia in July. It’s also an opportunity to shake off any early-season rust and blood newer players under pressure.
Despite its friendly label, the intensity will be real. Both teams have motivation — the Boks to end a 25-year winless run against the Barbarians, and the visitors to secure a first-ever victory on South African turf.
Expect fireworks, flair, and fierce competition when these rugby giants collide in Cape Town.
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