South Africa Names 54-Man Squad Including Nine Uncapped Players for 2025 Tests

South Africa's rugby team coach Rassie Erasmus has named a 54-man squad for the first four of their 14 international matches in 2025, featuring nine uncapped players as part of a strategy to blend experienced World Cup champions with promising new talent. The squad retains 31 players from the 2023 World Cup-winning team, emphasizing continuity while also providing opportunities for emerging players like Juarno Augustus, Marnus van der Merwe, and Ntokozo Makhaza, the latter being notable for his lack of senior professional experience. The Springboks will kick off their season against the Barbarians in Cape Town on June 28, followed by tests against Italy and Georgia, with a busy schedule including a European tour later in the year. Erasmus highlighted the benefit of an expanded squad for productive training sessions and for young players to learn from seasoned champions as South Africa prepares for the 2027 World Cup in Australia. Injuries have ruled out some players, but the squad balances youth and experience, with senior players like Makazole Mapimpi and Willie le Roux expected to play key roles this season. The inclusion of uncapped players, some from university rugby and local clubs, reflects Erasmus's intent to develop depth and prepare the team for future challenges.