Hendrikse Brothers Make Springbok History As Halfback Pair vs Wales
Hendrikse Brothers Make Springbok History As Halfback Pair vs Wales
Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse make history as starting halfbacks for Springboks in the Wales finale, with Hanekom debuting in revamped lineup
In an exciting season finale, the South Africa Springboks will see Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse paired together at halfback as they face Wales in their last match of the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday.
The Hendrikse brothers, who become the 36th set of siblings to play for South Africa, will start as scrumhalf and flyhalf, marking a historic moment as the first brotherly pairing since Dan and Robert du Preez in 2018.
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This game is significant for Jaden and Jordan, both of whom have proven their mettle in the Hollywoodbets Sharks squad. Their partnership brings fresh energy to the Springbok lineup, combining skill and family camaraderie. Bok coach Rassie Erasmus expressed his excitement at their pairing: "We are very excited to see how Jordan, who already played against Wales this year, will dictate play alongside his brother. Their training performances have been exceptional, and we’re looking forward to seeing that translate on the field."
This Test match is also noteworthy for Cameron Hanekom, who will make his Springbok debut off the bench, becoming the 12th debutant this season. Hanekom’s inclusion adds depth and versatility to the team, with Erasmus noting that Hanekom “offers options at loose forward as he can play No 6, No 7, and No 8,” making him a valuable asset for the squad’s long-term goals.
The Springboks head into this clash with seven changes to the team that defeated England 29-20 in London. The Hendrikse brothers’ inclusion is the only alteration to the backline, while the forward pack sees a complete overhaul with five fresh starters. Johan Grobbelaar, rejoining the squad at hooker, partners with prop Thomas du Toit and Ox Nche in the front row. Meanwhile, a formidable new lock combination of Jean Kleyn and Franco Mostert, both recently returned from injury, promises to add power to the set pieces and the lineout. Erasmus shared his confidence in the duo, saying, “Jean and Franco will play pivotal roles, with Eben Etzebeth and RG Snyman primed to bring their usual physicality off the bench.”
What This Match Means For Wales Rugby
Saturday’s game holds considerable weight for both sides. Although Wales enters the contest on a challenging run of 11 straight losses, Erasmus is wary of underestimating them. He expects a fierce performance from a Welsh team eager to restore pride, especially on home turf under the leadership of renowned coach Warren Gatland. “Wales are a proud nation, and we know they’ll do everything to finish their campaign on a high note,” Erasmus said. “We’ve experienced firsthand how defeats can galvanise a team, and their passionate crowd will be a factor.”
With this game marking South Africa’s 101st match on British and Irish soil, the Springboks aim to complete their first undefeated northern hemisphere tour since 2013. A win would also mean an impressive 11th victory from 13 matches this year, tying the team’s success rate with last season’s 84.6% win record. Should South Africa prevail, this will mark their 55th win under Erasmus since his return in 2018, lifting the Springboks’ overall historic winning percentage to a proud 63.6%.
As the Springboks prepare to take on Wales, fans and analysts alike are eager to see the Hendrikse brothers in action and witness Hanekom’s debut. The team’s blend of experience and youth, along with their commitment to finishing the season strong, sets the stage for an exciting finale in Cardiff.
Springbok Team to Face Wales in Cardiff:
- 15. Aphelele Fassi (Sharks)
- 14. Cheslin Kolbe (Suntory Sungoliath)
- 13. Jesse Kriel (Canon Eagles)
- 12. Damian de Allende (Wild Knights)
- 11. Kurt-Lee Arendse (Bulls)
- 10. Jordan Hendrikse (Sharks)
- 9. Jaden Hendrikse (Sharks)
- 8. Jasper Wiese (D-Rocks)
- 7. Elrigh Louw (Bulls)
- 6. Siya Kolisi (captain, Sharks)
- 5. Franco Mostert (Honda Heat)
- 4. Jean Kleyn (Munster)
- 3. Thomas du Toit (Bath)
- 2. Johan Grobbelaar (Bulls)
- 1. Ox Nche (Sharks)
Replacements:
16. Malcolm Marx (Spears), 17. Gerhard Steenekamp (Bulls), 18. Vincent Koch (Sharks), 19. Eben Etzebeth (Sharks), 20. RG Snyman (Leinster), 21. Cameron Hanekom (Bulls), 22. Cobus Reinach (Montpellier), 23. Handre Pollard (Leicester Tigers).
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