South African rugby’s newest front-row talent will make his debut this weekend. Former Junior Springbok captain Zachary Porthen has been named in the starting lineup as the Springboks face Japan at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, marking the South Africa’s opening clash of the November Internationals.

At just 22, Porthen becomes the youngest prop to make his Test debut for the Springboks in the professional era. Coach Rassie Erasmus described his inclusion as a natural progression after an impressive rise through the United Rugby Championship (URC) and age-grade levels. “He proved at URC level and with the Junior Springboks what he can do, and we’re looking forward to seeing what he brings in his first Test,” said Erasmus.

The squad shows continuity from the side that beat Argentina 29–27 earlier this month to clinch a second straight Rugby Championship title. Sixteen players from that victory return, while Kurt-Lee Arendse, Franco Mostert, and Lood de Jager reclaim their starting roles after injury absences. Gerhard Steenekamp and Johan Grobbelaar are back among the replacements, while André Esterhuizen offers flexible cover as both a forward and backline option.

The team will be led by Siya Kolisi, supported by a backline featuring Cobus Reinach and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu as the halfback pairing, with Cheslin Kolbe moving to fullback and Arendse back on the wing.

Erasmus cautioned that Japan, under coach Eddie Jones, remain a dangerous side. “They’re a quality team who’ve made big strides. If you’re not sharp mentally and physically, anything can happen,” he said.

Last weekend Japan pushed Australia hard, only losing 15-19 in Tokyo, so the Springboks will know not to underestimate them.

Squad:

15 Cheslin Kolbe; 14 Ethan Hooker; 13 Jesse Kriel; 12 Damian de Allende; 11 Kurt-Lee Arendse; 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu; 9 Cobus Reinach; 8 Jasper Wiese; 7 Franco Mostert; 6 Siya Kolisi (captain); 5 Lood de Jager; 4 RG Snyman; 3 Zachary Porthenl; 2 Malcolm Marx; 1 Ox Nche

Replacements

16 Johan Grobbelaar; 17 Gerhard Steenekamp; 18 Wilco Louw; 19 Ruan Nortje; 20 Andre Esterhuizen; 21 Kwagga Smith; 22 Grant Williams; 23 Manie Libbok