Springboks name 23-man squad with young lock Riley Norton

South Africa’s national rugby team will face the Barbarians in a non-Test match in Gqeberha on Saturday, June 20, 2026, as part of their preparations for the upcoming Nations Championship. The Springboks have named a squad blending established stars with emerging talent, highlighted by a surprise selection at flyhalf and the inclusion of a promising young lock.

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus announced his 23-man squad on Tuesday, June 16. Regular flyhalves Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Handre Pollard, and Manie Libbok are unavailable due to injury, club commitments, or rest, prompting Erasmus to select Quan Horn for the number 10 role. Horn, who has been the Lions' first-choice fullback and has not started a match at flyhalf in his career, will be supported by experienced teammates including Andre Esterhuizen, Grant Williams, and Jesse Kriel.

Former Springbok coach Nick Mallett described Horn's selection as a fantastic challenge, noting the player's outstanding season with the Lions and his demonstrated playmaking skills from the fullback position. Mallett expects the Barbarians, captained by former All Black TJ Perenara, to provide a structured test rather than a purely open game.