With the Barbarians clash just around the corner, it’s the perfect time for a bit of rugby speculation — and let’s be honest, there’s nothing we fans love more than trying to read Rassie Erasmus’s mind. In today’s column, I’m breaking down who I think Rassie will pick for the Springboks’ starting 23… and who I’d pick if I had the whistle.
Who Rassie Might Pick
When it comes to the front row, I expect Rassie to keep things traditional and powerful. Ox Nché, Bongi Mbonambi, and Wilco Louw should form the engine room up front. They’ve all done the job before, and I don’t see any reason Rassie would change it up now.
At lock, expect the ever-reliable pairing of Eben Etzebeth and Franco Mostert. Their experience and chemistry are undeniable.
On the flanks, Siya Kolisi will naturally lead the team as captain, and I believe Vincent Tshituka will join him. At No. 8, Jasper Wiese seems the logical choice, rounding out a forward pack that blends brute strength and leadership.
My predicted halfback pairing? Faf de Klerk and Handré Pollard. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu is an exciting option, but I suspect Rassie will go with the experienced Pollard for a high-profile game like this.
The midfield should feature the tried-and-tested Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel, while the electric duo of Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse will almost certainly patrol the wings. At fullback, I see Aphelele Fassi getting the nod — a reward for a standout season.
Bench-wise, I predict:
- Front row: Malcolm Marx, Thomas du Toit, and Neethling Fouché
- Locks: Cobus Wiese and RG Snyman (fresh off a URC Player of the Season award)
- Loose forward: Kwagga Smith
- Backline: Cobus Reinach and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
This gives Rassie his classic 6-2 bench split — something he rarely deviates from.
My Ideal Starting XV
Now for the fun part — my dream 23.
Up front, I’d start with Ox Nché and Wilco Louw, but I’d go with Malcolm Marx at hooker. I’m a big fan of his power and presence around the park.
At lock, I’d pick Eben Etzebeth and Ruan Nortjé. Nortjé’s been consistent and energetic all season — I’d love to see him get a chance alongside a stalwart like Eben. If Eben is rested, Cobus Wiese would be my next pick — he’s had an incredible season.
My loose trio mirrors Rassie’s — Siya Kolisi, Vincent Tshituka, and Jasper Wiese. All three bring a unique edge and play with intensity that lifts the team.
Faf and Pollard remain my halfback duo, and on the wings, it’s still Kolbe and Arendse — because who else brings that spark?
In the centers, I’d love to see Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Ethan Hooker. This match is a perfect chance to expose younger players to the intensity of a Barbarians-style game. Sasha at 12 and Ethan at 13 could be electric. Alternatively, Sasha could play at 10 with Pollard inside — both options are exciting.
At fullback, Aphelele Fassi keeps his spot in my book — composed under pressure, great in the air, and confident with ball in hand.
My bench:
- Front row: Marnus van der Merwe, Thomas du Toit, Neethling Fouché
- Locks: Cobus Wiese, RG Snyman
- Loose forward: Kwagga Smith — versatile, dynamic, and always brings something special
- Backs: Grant Williams and Jesse Kriel. Grant brings speed and energy, while Jesse adds stability and experience to close out tight games.
Final Whistle
Whether Rassie goes with my predictions or not, the Barbarians game is a rare gem — a moment to experiment, blood young talent, and build momentum toward the next big season. While I believe we’ll see a mostly experienced lineup, I’m hoping for a few brave surprises.
Let me know what your 23 would look like — and until the next piece, keep the gees alive and the braai burning.
RASSIE’S PREDICTED 23
Starting XV
- Ox Nché
- Bongi Mbonambi
- Wilco Louw
- Eben Etzebeth
- Franco Mostert
- Siya Kolisi (captain)
- Vincent Tshituka
- Jasper Wiese
- Faf de Klerk
- Handré Pollard
- Kurt-Lee Arendse
- Damian de Allende
- Jesse Kriel
- Cheslin Kolbe
- Aphelele Fassi
Replacements (Bench)
16. Malcolm Marx
17. Thomas du Toit
18. Neethling Fouché
19. RG Snyman
20. Cobus Wiese
21. Kwagga Smith
22. Cobus Reinach
23. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
MY DREAM SPRINGBOK 23
Starting XV
- Ox Nché
- Malcolm Marx
- Wilco Louw
- Eben Etzebeth
- Ruan Nortjé
- Siya Kolisi (captain)
- Vincent Tshituka
- Jasper Wiese
- Faf de Klerk
- Handré Pollard
- Kurt-Lee Arendse
- Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
- Ethan Hooker
- Cheslin Kolbe
- Aphelele Fassi
Replacements (Bench)
16. Marnus van der Merwe
17. Thomas du Toit
18. Neethling Fouché
19. Cobus Wiese
20. RG Snyman
21. Kwagga Smith
22. Grant Williams
23. Jesse Kriel