De Villiers relies on Bulls
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Peter de Villiers, the Springbok coach, last night named a 28-strong party for the forthcoming three-Test series against the Lions. There was a predictably large, but still unnerving, representation from the Pretoria-based Bulls, whose Super 14 victory at Loftus Versfeld last weekend bordered on the breathtaking. Ten of that side have made the cut, along with a similar number from the Durban-based Sharks, including the captain, John Smit.
De Villiers has no specialist full-back in his party: Conrad Jantjes, the current front-line No 15, is injured. The World Cup-winning wing J P Pietersen is a hot tip to perform the role in the first Test on 20 June.
Morne Steyn, the stand-off with a penchant for drop goals, has been promoted to the squad and there is also a place for namesake Francois.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments