Springboks celebrating after winning the Freedom Cup between South Africa and New Zealand at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town on 7 September 2024. Picture: Henk Kruger, Independent Newspapers
South African rugby fans can look forward to an exciting line-up of home Tests in 2025, as SA Rugby confirmed the Springboks’ opponents for the Castle Lager Incoming Series and the home leg of the Castle Lager Rugby Championship on Wednesday.
The Springboks will host Italy, Georgia, Australia, and Argentina in a packed schedule designed to offer thrilling encounters and support the global growth of rugby. While venues and kick-off times are yet to be confirmed, the dates for these high-profile matches are set.
Italy will visit South Africa for the first time in over a decade, with Tests scheduled on July 5 and 12. The Azzurri last played in South Africa in 2013 and have only played seven matches on South African soil since their debut visit in 1999.
The #Springboks' opponents for their six Tests in South Africa next year have been locked in 🇿![CDATA[]]>🇦#ForeverGreenForeverGold
— Springboks (@Springboks) November 27, 2024
On July 19, the Springboks will face Georgia at home for only the second time in history. Their first meeting was in Pretoria in 2021, ahead of the COVID-affected British & Irish Lions series. This match aligns with World Rugby’s initiative to provide emerging nations like Georgia’s Lelos with exposure to top-tier competition.
The Springboks begin their Rugby Championship title defence against Australia, hosting the Wallabies on consecutive weekends, August 16 and 23. These matches are expected to be fierce, as Australia will also be preparing for their historic series against the British and Irish Lions in July.
The Rugby Championship concludes with a mix of home and away clashes against Argentina. The Boks will host the Pumas on September 27 before travelling for the return leg on October 4.
No doubt, fans are eagerly awaiting details on match venues and kick-off times, which SA Rugby will announce in due course.
The Springboks’ complete 2025 schedule, including away games against New Zealand and the November European tour, promises an exhilarating year of rugby.
Key Fixtures Summary
July 5: Italy
July 12: Italy
July 19: Georgia
August 16: Australia
August 23: Australia
September 27: Argentina
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