Springbok stalwart Kwagga Smith is set to earn his 50th Test cap this Sunday as the Springboks face off against Scotland at Murrayfield. This opening match of the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour promises excitement, especially with seasoned players like Franco Mostert and RG Snyman making their return after injury layoffs.

Rassie Erasmus, the Springbok national coach, has unveiled a powerful lineup, choosing Eben Etzebeth as captain while regular skipper Siya Kolisi starts from the bench. Smith, who made his Springbok debut against Wales in 2018, will take the field at No. 8, marking a milestone in a career that already boasts two Rugby World Cup titles.

The return of Mostert and Snyman is a welcome boost to the Springbok pack. Mostert is back following a broken leg suffered against Ireland, while Snyman has shaken off a foot injury sustained prior to the Wallabies Test. Their comeback signals South Africa’s intent to field a formidable forward lineup, with a seven-one forward-back split on the bench for this physical battle.

Erasmus has made 11 changes to the starting team that defeated Argentina in the final Castle Lager Rugby Championship game, maintaining a lineup brimming with experience. Out of the 23 players, 21 have Rugby World Cup winner's medals, with a balanced mix of veteran strength and rising talent.

A familiar backline will return, highlighted by veteran fullback Willie le Roux, who approaches his own milestone with his 98th Test match. Joining him are Canan Moodie and Makazole Mapimpi on the wings, as well as the skilled midfield pair Andre Esterhuizen and Lukhanyo Am. Jaden Hendrikse will start at scrumhalf, partnered with the experienced Handre Pollard, forming an exciting halfback duo.

The Springbok pack will be a mix of veterans and warriors, including Elrigh Louw and Marco van Staden joining Smith in the loose trio, while Mostert lines up alongside Etzebeth, extending his record as South Africa's most-capped player with 129 Tests.

On the bench, Erasmus has opted for experience, including forwards Malcolm Marx, Vincent Koch, and Kolisi, ensuring depth and physicality. Grant Williams is the only backline reserve, providing versatility at scrumhalf and wing.

Erasmus praised Smith’s milestone, stating, “Kwagga is a remarkable player, bringing talent and dedication to every game. Reaching 50 caps is a significant achievement, and we’re incredibly proud of his contributions to the team.”

As Scotland prepares for a fierce battle on home turf, Erasmus anticipates a hard-fought contest. “Scotland is ranked seventh globally, and they’re known for their resilience. We expect an 80-minute battle and a passionate home crowd that will lift their side. Our team is ready for the challenge.”

The Springboks will look to extend their impressive record against Scotland, having won eight straight matches against them since 2010. The game kicks off at 18:10 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.

Springbok Starting XV: 15 – Willie le Roux
14 – Canan Moodie
13 – Lukhanyo Am
12 – Andre Esterhuizen
11 – Makazole Mapimpi
10 – Handre Pollard
9 – Jaden Hendrikse
8 – Kwagga Smith
7 – Elrigh Louw
6 – Marco van Staden
5 – Franco Mostert
4 – Eben Etzebeth (captain)
3 – Thomas du Toit
2 – Bongi Mbonambi
1 – Ox Nche

Replacements: 16 – Malcolm Marx
17 – Gerhard Steenekamp
18 – Vincent Koch
19 – RG Snyman
20 – Siya Kolisi
21 – Pieter-Steph du Toit
22 – Jasper Wiese
23 – Grant Williams
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]