History will be made at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff this Saturday as Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse become the 36th pair of brothers to play for the Springboks.
The duo will start together at halfback in South Africa’s final Test of the season against Wales, in the last match of the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour.
Jordan (flyhalf) and Jaden (scrumhalf) are the first brothers to take the field together for South Africa since Dan and Robert du Preez in 2018. It’s also the first time a starting pair of brothers has featured since Jannie and Bismarck du Plessis in the 2015 Rugby World Cup pool stages.
Their selection is part of a matchday squad featuring seven personnel changes from the side that defeated England 29-20 in London last week.
Brothers in arms in Cardiff on Saturday 👍#Springboks #ForeverGreenForeverGold
— Springboks (@Springboks) November 19, 2024
Cameron Hanekom, a rising star for the Vodacom Bulls, has been named on the bench and is poised to make his Test debut. The loose forward will become the 12th new Springbok debutant this season.
Drafted into the squad prior to the tour after Damian Willemse’s withdrawal, Hanekom’s versatility is a major asset. “Cameron can play No.6, No.7, and No.8, which adds great depth to our loose forward options,” said head coach Rassie Erasmus.
Changes in the Starting XV
The Springboks’ starting line-up sees significant adjustments, particularly in the forward pack.
Johan Grobbelaar starts at hooker, marking his first appearance since the Rugby Championship clash against Australia. Thomas du Toit returns at tighthead prop, with Ox Nche retaining his spot at loosehead.
A new lock pairing features Jean Kleyn, who last played in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, and Franco Mostert, with Eben Etzebeth and RG Snyman rotating to the bench. And in the loose trio, Elrigh Louw replaces the injured Pieter-Steph du Toit, joining captain Siya Kolisi and powerful No.8 Jasper Wiese.
In the backline, the Hendrikse brothers are the only changes, with Jaden replacing Cobus Reinach and Jordan stepping in for Handre Pollard, both of whom will feature on the bench.
Erasmus opted for a 6-2 split on the bench, prioritising forward strength. The replacement front row consists of Malcolm Marx, Gerhard Steenekamp, and Vincent Koch, with locks Eben Etzebeth and RG Snyman offering muscle in the second half.
The backline reserves feature experienced campaigners Cobus Reinach and Handre Pollard, both double Rugby World Cup winners.
Reflecting on the team selection, Erasmus emphasised the importance of finishing the season strong. “This is our last match of the season, and we are determined to end the year on a positive note,” he said.
The inclusion of youth and experience in the squad aligns with the Springboks’ long-term strategy.
“Jordan played against Wales in June, and we’re excited to see how he controls the game alongside Jaden. Cameron has been outstanding at training, and we’re delighted to give him his opportunity,” Erasmus added.
Erasmus also highlighted the challenges posed by a Welsh team eager to turn their fortunes around. Despite being on an 11-match losing streak, Wales, under the guidance of Warren Gatland, are a formidable opponent.
“Wales are a proud nation, and playing at home will galvanise them,” Erasmus noted. “We’ve experienced how a run of defeats can unite a team, so we must be mentally and physically prepared.”
This match underscores the depth of the Springbok squad, with 17 Rugby World Cup winners in the mix and seasoned players like Jean Kleyn, who has featured in World Cups for both Ireland and South Africa.
“Kleyn is an experienced campaigner who has been in great form for Munster, and his partnership with Franco Mostert will play a vital role in the set pieces,” said Erasmus.
Erasmus emphasised the lessons from underdog turnarounds in rugby, citing Australia’s resurgence as an example. “A lot can change with confidence and mindset. Wales have nothing to lose, and we’ll show them the same respect we showed England and Scotland,” he said.
The Springboks will aim to cap off a successful tour and a memorable season with a victory, while Wales will seek to salvage pride in front of their home fans. Rugby enthusiasts can expect a fiercely contested battle in Cardiff.
Springbok matchday 23
Starting XV: 1. Ox Nche, 2. Johan Grobbelaar, 3. Thomas du Toit, 4. Jean Kleyn, 5. Franco Mostert, 6. Siya Kolisi (captain), 7. Elrigh Louw, 8. Jasper Wiese, 9. Jaden Hendrikse, 10. Jordan Hendrikse, 11. Kurt-Lee Arendse, 12. Damian de Allende, 13. Jesse Kriel, 14. Cheslin Kolbe, 15. Aphelele Fassi. Replacements: 16. Malcolm Marx, 17. Gerhard Steenekamp, 18. Vincent Koch, 19. Eben Etzebeth, 20. RG Snyman, 21. Cameron Hanekom, 22. Cobus Reinach, 23. Handre Pollard.
