Springboks Achieve Dominant Victory Over Barbarians in Cape Town Test
During their opening Test match of 2025, the Springboks, donning their new uniforms, showcased an outstanding performance, securing a 54-7 victory over the Barbarians at DHL Stadium on a cold and rainy Saturday.
This day will always be significant for Vincent Tshituka, who celebrated his debut with two tries. This decisive victory also marked the end of the Springboks’ winless run against the Barbarians, which had lasted since 2000.
Team Updates and Dominance in the First Half
The Springboks displayed solid defensive capabilities in the first half, playing without their usual captain Siya Kolisi, who was unavailable due to a minor injury. Jesse Kriel took on captaincy responsibilities, while Marco van Staden from the Blue Bulls filled Kolisi’s No. 6 jersey, partnering with debutant Tshituka and Jean-Luc du Preez in the loose trio.
The starting lineup also featured lock Lood de Jager, who returned after missing the 2023 Rugby World Cup due to injuries and illness. Additionally, Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye made his debut, joining Malcolm Marx and Ox Nche in the front row.
The powerful Springbok pack quickly applied pressure on the Barbarians. An early clearance attempt by the visitors, led by Aphelele Fassi, resulted in a knock-on by Josh Jacomb. Following the lineout, the Springboks executed a powerful driving maul, allowing Malcolm Marx to score the first try in the sixth minute.
The second try came when Fassi made a brilliant pass, penetrating the defense to set up Cheslin Kolbe, who finished in the corner. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu converted, making amends for his earlier miss on Marx’s conversion. The Barbarians struggled to gain ground or possession, repeatedly stymied by the Springboks’ steadfast defense, further complicated by set piece errors and unforced errors.
Tshituka, on his debut, scored the third try in the 24th minute, extending the score to 19-0 after Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s conversion. While the Barbarians showcased moments of attacking potential through Mark Telea and French international Melvyn Jaminet at fullback, the Springboks’ determined defense consistently thwarted them. The pace of the match slowed as the first half wrapped up, with the Springboks leading 19-0 at halftime.
Second-Half Brilliance and Scoring Spree
Despite the wet conditions, the Barbarians faced unyielding pressure in the second half. Jacomb made a break but lacked support, leading to a misplaced pass that allowed the Springboks to clear the threat.
In the 45th minute, the Springboks activated their renowned “Bomb Squad,” bringing in six fresh players. This strategic maneuver quickly paid dividends as Jan-Hendrik Wessels reclaimed possession and dove over the line, with substitute Manie Libbok converting.
The situation worsened for the Barbarians when Lachlan Boshier received a yellow card for a high tackle on Kurt-Lee Arendse. The Springboks took advantage of the numerical superiority, with Damian de Allende finding space and delivering a precise kick that set up Arendse for the team’s fourth try. Kolbe displayed his aerial skills, and despite an initial offensive being stopped, de Jager added a fifth try to the scoreline.
Just when it seemed the Barbarians might avoid a scoreless game, Jaminet sidestepped a tackle from Kolbe to secure their only try, which he converted himself. Nonetheless, Kolbe continued to shine with his agility and footwork. Tshituka capped off his impressive debut with a second try, extending the Springboks’ lead to a commanding 47-7.
With ten minutes left, the Springboks were far from finished. Kolbe, still on the field, wreaked havoc on the Barbarians with his dynamic movements, reaffirming his status as SA Rugby Player of the Year in 2024. De Allende ensured the score exceeded the 50-point mark with another try, and Libbok concluded the comprehensive win with the final conversion.
Image credit: Steve Haag Sports