The excitement is building in Durban as the Springboks prepare for their final home Test of the inaugural Nations Championship this Saturday. When the world champions take the field at Kings Park to face Wales, they will be backed by a passionate home crowd and a powerful pre-match performance.
TheSouthAfrican can confirm that talented gospel and worship singer Pearl Adams has been selected to perform the South African national anthem prior to the 17:40 kickoff.
Rising Gospel Star Takes the Big Stage
Pearl Adams is widely recognized for her powerful vocals and her involvement with The Jesus Collective (TJC)—a prominent South African gospel music ministry and mentorship organization known for uniting established and rising musical talent. Her performance is expected to set a thrilling, emotional tone for the highly anticipated clash.
Four Debutants Ready for the Ultimate Test
While veterans and double World Cup winners anchor the squad, Saturday’s match marks a massive milestone for four rising stars making their official Test debuts:
- Ruben van Heerden (Lock)
- Vusi Moyo (Flyhalf)
- Carlu Sadie (Prop)
- Jaco Williams (Wing)
For towering lock Ruben van Heerden, the call-up caps off a dedicated journey through the South African rugby ranks, spanning from the SA U18 team to the Junior Springboks and recent appearances for the SA “A” side.
“It’s been a whirlwind of a ride since I got the call to join the Springboks,” Van Heerden shared. “At this stage, I’m not really too nervous… I’m just grateful for the opportunity and hoping to make the most of it.”
Van Heerden added that sharing his debut with three other players brings a sense of comfort. “When I’m on the field on Saturday, and I look around me and see someone in the same position as I’m in, and at the same time get to draw inspiration from guys who have been there and done it, it makes it an occasion to look forward to.”
