It’s been a season of milestones for various Springbok players already in 2026, with Damian de Allende and Pieter-Steph du Toit reaching 100 caps.
Cheslin Kolbe and Ox Nche have hit the half century mark as well this year, and now Jasper Wiese will earn his 50th Test cap this weekend after making his international debut against Georgia at Loftus Versfeld in 2021.
It’s also worth noting that 2025 World Rugby and SA Rugby Player of the Year Malcom Marx requires only six more appearances after this encounter to join the exclusive club of players to earn 100 Test caps.
Praise for Springbok powerhouse Jasper Wiese
On the eve of Wiese’s milestone, legendary former Springbok No 8 Duane Vermeulen shared a tribute to the influential eighthman.
“It’s amazing how time has flown by,” said Vermeulen.
“Jasper got there a lot faster than I did, and he’s a fantastic player and real stalwart in the team. He’s also become one of the core leaders in the group over the last couple of years.
“He is the go-to guy if you want to go forward, and he’s been playing really well. It’s a fantastic achievement and there is a lot more to come from him. I enjoyed the time I played alongside him, and coaching him is just as much fun.”
Meanwhile, looking ahead to the game, Vermeulen echoed sentiments that the Australian forward pack is a big weapon for their team, and he expected a massive battle on Sunday.
“The big thing about the Australian side is that they are really quick at the breakdown,” said Vermeulen.
“They have some good poachers in their squad, and their scrum poses a different threat to that of New Zealand. We haven’t faced their lineout and maul this year, and they have been doing really well.
“It’s a different set-up under Les Kiss (new Wallabies head coach), and we’ll have a game on our hands come Sunday. They will be well prepared, and we will not underestimate them.”
This Sunday’s match kicks off at 11:45 (SA Time) and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
Miscellaneous:
