Springboks Name Squad for British and Irish Lions Tour

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus on Friday unveiled the 35-man squad that will face the British and Irish Lions in a three-Test series beginning next month, with the selection producing a handful of surprises certain to spark debate among rugby fans.

Key Inclusions

Bulls flank Elrigh Louw earns his first Test call-up after a stellar Super Rugby Pacific campaign, as does Sharks centre Ethan Hooker, who has been in scintillating form for his franchise. Veteran prop Steven Kitshoff returns from injury to reclaim his place.

Notable Omissions

Damian Willemse, who struggled for consistency in recent outings, misses out. Erasmus said the selectors had "agonised" over the decision and that Willemse remained very much in their plans.

Erasmus on the Lions

"The Lions are a once-in-a-generation occasion," said Erasmus at a press conference in Johannesburg. "For many of these players, it will be the defining series of their careers. We have picked a squad with the right balance of experience and hunger."

Test Schedule

The first Test takes place at DHL Newlands on 5 July, the second at Loftus Versfeld on 19 July, and the decider at Ellis Park on 2 August.