The Welsh will be without 13 of their regulars, who have returned to their United Rugby Championship clubs as the Test falls outside the international window. The Boks, too, have released several players to their URC and Japanese clubs, but a strong side is still expected to run out – one that may well resemble the outfit that beat Italy in Turin nearly a fortnight ago.

Springbok hooker Johan Grobbelaar says that while the team remain unbeaten on tour and may be considered favourites, they’re preparing for a proper scrap – because Wales won’t hand them anything on a silver platter.

Morné van den Berg. Photo: Morgan Piek

“On paper we might be the favourites, but knowing the Welsh from the URC, they’re a proud nation, and they definitely won’t go away,” Grobbelaar said.

“It’s going to be a full-on battle for 80 minutes. Even though they might be missing a few players, the guys stepping in are quality players. So, it’s going to be a big game for us.”

Saturday’s clash will be the Springboks’ 15th and final Test of the year, and they’ll be hunting their 13th victory. Their only blemishes in 2025 came against the Wallabies with a 38-22 defeat at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, and the 24-17 loss to the All Blacks at Eden Park in Auckland.

Grobbelaar, who delivered an excellent performance against the Azzurri, added that the squad set out to finish their End-of-Year tour unbeaten – a goal that remains firmly within their grasp.

“This is the last one for the year, but there won’t be any lack of motivation. We’re treating it with the same intensity as any other Test week, and the guys are really looking forward to it.

“There may be a few new combinations, with some different guys getting opportunities, but everyone is 100% focused on the job.

Eben Etzebeth against Wales in Bloemfontein. Photo: Morgan Piek

“I think what’s helped us is that we’ve been training and playing together for the last couple of weeks. We’ve mixed things up and changed the team, so we’ve gotten to know each other well – especially the younger guys who haven’t had many Test minutes. I’m sure we’ll be ready for the battle.”

Saturday’s Test between Wales and the Springboks at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff kicks off at 17:10.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs