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Springboks Lead the Charge in Rugby Championship 2023 with Duane Vermeulen as Captain

July 5, 2023

1 min read

The Rugby Championship 2023 has begun, and South Africa’s national rugby team, the Springboks, are gearing up with high hopes and anticipation. They enter the tournament with their experienced number 8, Duane Vermeulen, leading them in their opening match against Australia at Loftus Versfeld.

A Diverse Squad

Vermeulen’s squad comprises Rugby World Cup winners and up-and-coming talents. Jean Kleyn, the former Irish international lock, makes his Springboks debut, adding to the intrigue. The backline features Canan Moodie and Kurt-Lee Arendse, Vodacom Bulls wingers eager to dazzle their local fans.

Veteran fullback Willie le Roux, along with Lukhanyo Am returning to the field and rekindling his Cell C Sharks provincial partnership with Andre Esterhuizen, assists in defense. Flyhalf Manie Libbok and loose forward Marco van Staden are set to make their first starts after previously serving as replacements.

Early Preparation for the Rugby Championship

To better prepare for the upcoming tests against New Zealand in the Rugby Championship, Springbok’s coach Jacques Nienaber sent 14 players early on Tuesday to acclimate and enhance their performance. In the absence of Siya Kolisi, Vermeulen takes on the responsibility as captain, having captained the Springboks against Argentina and the All Blacks previously.

Ready to Face Australia

The Springboks will face Australia in Pretoria this Saturday. The excitement of the Rugby Championship 2023 season is palpable as the team gears up to set the stage ablaze. A thrilling match against Argentina in Johannesburg will wrap up the tournament.

Squad List

Here is the list of the Springbok team set to face Australia in Pretoria:

Ox Nche
Bongi Mbonambi
Frans Malherbe
Jean Kleyn
Marvin Orie
Marco van Staden
Pieter-Steph du Toit
Duane Vermeulen (C)
Cobus Reinach
Manie Libbok
Kurt-Lee Arendse
Andre Esterhuizen
Lukhanyo Am
Canan Moodie
Willie le Roux

Replacements:

Joseph Dweba
Thomas du Toit
Vincent Koch
RG Snyman
Evan Roos
Deon Fourie
Grant Williams
Damian Willemse

Ready to Conquer and Make History

As the 2023 Rugby Championship unfolds, the Springboks are ready to conquer the field and make a lasting impact in the world of rugby. With a perfect blend of seasoned champions and emerging stars, they are poised to leave their mark in history.

Sarah Kendricks
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