Four new caps in Bok squad

2008-05-28 12:52

Cape Town - Springbok coach Peter de Villiers included four uncapped players in his squad of 30 players for the upcoming Tests against Wales and Italy.

Andries Bekker, Tendai Mtawarira, Brian Mujati and Odwa Ndungane have been rewarded for their form in the Super 14.

"It wasn't easy cutting down the squad to 30, and that is how it should always be," said De Villiers. "A lot of guys put up their hands and I want to make it clear that the Springbok door is not shut to anyone.

"The squad was picked entirely on merit, and every player named deserves his spot. I congratulate them all and look forward to the challenges of Wales and Italy that are now upon us."

Selectors Peter Jooste and Ian McIntosh also expressed their satisfaction at a "well balanced squad, with the right mix of youth and experience".

The squad assembles in Bloemfontein on Sunday, June 1.

Backs

Gcobani Bobo, Tonderai Chavhanga, Bolla Conradie, Jean de Villiers, Peter Grant, Bryan Habana, Adrian Jacobs, Butch James, Conrad Jantjes, Ricky Januarie, Percy Montgomery, Odwa Ndungane, Ruan Pienaar and Francois Steyn.

Forwards

Andries Bekker, Bakkies Botha, BJ Botha, Bismarck du Plessis, Ryan Kankowski, Victor Matfield, Tendai Mtawarira, Brian Mujati, Danie Rossouw, John Smit (c), Juan Smith, Pierre Spies, Gurthrö Steenkamp, CJ van der Linde, Joe van Niekerk and Luke Watson.

Of the original training squad, the following players were not considered because of injury:

Heini Adams, Meyer Bosman, Schalk Burger, Fourie du Preez, Jaque Fourie, Zane Kirchner, Wikus van Heerden and Duanne Vermeulen.

- Sport24