South Africa Bolsters Squad for Historic Test Match Against Portugal

South Africa has added five players to its squad for the one-off test against Portugal in Bloemfontein, despite being without key players Franco Mostert and Damian de Allende. Coach Rassie Erasmus aims to build depth for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, with the match being the first-ever between the two nations.

South Africa has reinforced its squad with the addition of five new players for Saturday's one-off test against Portugal in Bloemfontein, confirmed officials.

The squad will miss lock Franco Mostert and centre Damian de Allende. Mostert was injured in a close 25-24 defeat to Ireland, while De Allende has been excused for personal reasons. Winger Edwill van der Merwe also sits out due to injury.

In their place, loose forwards Elrigh Louw and Ruan Venter, prop Ntuthuko Mchunu, hooker Andre-Hugo Venter, and fullback Quan Horn have been added. Coach Rassie Erasmus plans to field a much-changed lineup, part of a strategy to build squad depth ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The world champion Springboks face Portugal for the first time in what promises to be a historic match. Erasmus emphasized the importance of managing players' workloads throughout a demanding season, which includes six tests in the Rugby Championship and a European tour in November.

(With inputs from agencies.)