South Africa rugby coach Rassie Erasmus selected four new players for Saturday's match against the Barbarians. Lions prop Asenathi Ntlabakanye stands out among the newcomers after losing 16 kilograms through hard training. The 26-year-old player worked at scrum coach Daan Human's farm during breaks from his regular team schedule. Human has gained legendary status within the national team setup for his training methods. Ntlabakanye reduced his weight from over 150 kilograms to 141 kilograms through this special program.
Erasmus spotted Ntlabakanye's potential years ago but the player needed time to develop properly. The coach worked with Lions management to give Ntlabakanye extra training opportunities. Human's farm provided the perfect environment for intensive physical conditioning. The prop spent three weeks at the facility after his club team finished their season early. This extended training period helped accelerate his progress toward international readiness.
Vincent Tshituka joins Ntlabakanye as another uncapped player making his debut. Reserve forwards Marnus van der Merwe and Neethling Fouche complete the group of newcomers. The match against the Barbarians will not count as an official test. However, these players will gain valuable experience wearing the Springbok jersey for the first time.
Erasmus mixed experienced internationals with newer faces for this special fixture. Veterans like Damian de Allende and Cheslin Kolbe will support the less experienced players during the game. The coach believes this balance gives South Africa the best chance to win against a strong Barbarians team.
Erasmus spotted Ntlabakanye's potential years ago but the player needed time to develop properly. The coach worked with Lions management to give Ntlabakanye extra training opportunities. Human's farm provided the perfect environment for intensive physical conditioning. The prop spent three weeks at the facility after his club team finished their season early. This extended training period helped accelerate his progress toward international readiness.
Vincent Tshituka joins Ntlabakanye as another uncapped player making his debut. Reserve forwards Marnus van der Merwe and Neethling Fouche complete the group of newcomers. The match against the Barbarians will not count as an official test. However, these players will gain valuable experience wearing the Springbok jersey for the first time.
Erasmus mixed experienced internationals with newer faces for this special fixture. Veterans like Damian de Allende and Cheslin Kolbe will support the less experienced players during the game. The coach believes this balance gives South Africa the best chance to win against a strong Barbarians team.
