Six Saffas in World XV squad

Schalk Brits and Rory Kockott have been named in the World XV squad for their match against the Springboks on 7 June.

Brits, a former fan-favourite of the Stormers, will return to Newlands having recently been nominated for the European Player of the Year award. Kockott, meanwhile, has been winning plaudits for his performances for Castres in the French Top 14 and could make his Test debut for France in November.

Toulouse prop Schalk Ferreira is also in the squad along with former Bok prop BJ Botha and locks Alistair Hargreaves and Juandré Kruger. 

Former All Blacks prop Carl Hayman, France No 8 Julien Bonnaire and England loose forward Steffon Armitage will also be involved in an experienced pack.

James O’Connor, Matt Giteau and Drew Mitchell will provide a strong Australian contingent in the backline, while All Blacks winger Hosea Gear and Les Bleus François Trinh-Duc have also been included.

Nick Mallett will coach this group of talented individuals, as they look to give the Boks a stern challenge ahead of their incoming series against Wales and Scotland.

The rest of the World XV squad will be announced in due course.

Photo: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images