It’s a case of old foes, new colours as the Barbarians call on All Blacks and Irish reinforcements for the Bok Battle.
The Springboks’ season-opener against the Barbarians looks unlikely to be a ‘walkover’ with three top opposing players now confirmed.
Leaders Unveiled as Invitational Outfit Takes Shape
The Barbarians have revealed three Test centurions with a combined tally of 352 caps. As the first players for their squad to take on the Springboks in Cape Town next month.
Sam Cane, the All Blacks’ 2023 Rugby World Cup captain, will be joined by Ireland’s Peter O’Mahony and Conor Murray. The BaaBaas and the Boks lock horns in South Africa for the first time. This will also be the first time the three players have represented the Barbarians and worn the famous black and white shirt.
Counting on the Luck of the Irish
O’Mahony played the first of his 114 Tests for Ireland in 2012. Captained the side from flanker and was a member of their squad in five Six Nations championship victories. He also played one Test for the British & Irish Lions, against New Zealand in 2017.
Murray, like O’Mahony, a stalwart of Irish giants Munster, made his Test debut in 2011. Played 125 Tests for Ireland and eight for the British & Irish Lions. The experienced scrumhalf featured in all three Tests against the Boks in Cape Town in 2021, and toured Australia (2013) and New Zealand (2017).
Fitting International Swansong for All Blacks
Cane, a member of New Zealand’s Rugby World Cup-winning squad in 2015. Plays with Cheslin Kolbe at Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan.
The flank is a former All Blacks captain who made his Test debut in 2012, subsequently ending his international career with 104 caps. He retired from Test rugby in 2024, and this selection offers him one final opportunity on the international stage.
Springboks Recognise Barbarians Threat
“They’ve named the first three players who will be running out onto the pitch – Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray and Sam Cane – and we have no doubt they will name several more top-class players in the coming weeks, so this match will set the tone for us to switch into full-out competitive mode from the outset,” said Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus.
“I’ve worked with Peter and Conor before, and we know Sam very well – they are quality players with a lot of experience, which will serve as a great test at the start of a big season.
“We are very excited about the season ahead, and as a team, we are blessed to enjoy such passionate support from our fans throughout the country. We are busy putting the building blocks in place for the season, which starts in a little over a month against the Barbarians.”
A Punter’s Dream
This final promises drama, quality, and emotion. Fans following the action live or through online sports betting platforms will be eager to see who takes the upper hand.
