The stage is set for a spectacular build-up to the Springboks’ blockbuster clash against the All Blacks, with the artists who will perform the national anthems now confirmed.
More than 80,000 supporters are expected at Johannesburg’s iconic FNB Stadium for Saturday’s highly anticipated Test, and the pre-match atmosphere promises to be just as memorable as the rugby itself.
It has been confirmed that acclaimed South African vocalist Belinda Davids will perform Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika before kick-off.
Belinda Davids gets another Springboks honour
Davids, who was born and raised in Gqeberha, is internationally recognised for her powerful four-octave vocal range and her ability to recreate the sound of legendary singer Whitney Houston.
Raised in a musical and gospel-rich family, Davids began performing professionally at just 14 before building a recording career in South Africa during the 1990s.
She later worked as a session and backing vocalist in Los Angeles, performing with artists including Keyshia Cole and Monica.
Her international breakthrough came in 2013 when she was selected from almost 15,000 applicants to headline Showtime Australia’s The Greatest Love of All, a tribute production celebrating Houston’s music.
Davids went on to win the BBC talent show Even Better Than the Real Thing in 2017 before reaching the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent in 2020.
A familiar voice at Springbok Tests
Saturday will not be Davids’ first time performing the South African anthem before a major Springbok fixture.
Her previous appearances include the 2021 British & Irish Lions series, the 2022 All Blacks Test at Ellis Park, and the 2025 Italy Test at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
The latter was particularly special for Davids as it marked her first time performing the anthem for the Springboks in her hometown of Gqeberha.
For this occasion, she will once again have the honour of leading thousands of South African supporters in Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika.
Tarryn Lamb to perform New Zealand anthem
The New Zealand national anthem will be performed by Tarryn Lamb, an award-winning South African singer, songwriter and actress.
Lamb first gained prominence as the lead vocalist of pop group BlackByrd before establishing herself as a solo artist in the Afrikaans music scene.
She has also built a television career, adding another dimension to what promises to be a star-studded pre-match ceremony.
Springboks ready for FNB Stadium spectacle
The Test kicks off at 17:10 on Saturday and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has already highlighted the unique atmosphere expected at FNB Stadium.
With a crowd potentially exceeding 80,000, the famous vuvuzelas and passionate support are expected to create an intimidating environment for both teams.
Erasmus stressed that while the occasion will be exciting, the match itself remains a crucial battle between two of world rugby’s leading sides.
With the Springboks and All Blacks both looking for an advantage in the series, Erasmus believes composure and accuracy could prove decisive.
Before the rugby begins, however, Davids and Lamb will have the responsibility of setting the tone for one of the biggest sporting occasions on the South African calendar.
