Meshack Khotha

Meshack Khotha

khotham@sowetan.co.za

SPRINGBOK coach Peter de Villiers has named five uncapped players in the national squad that will face Leicester in the opening match of the European tour at Welford Road on Friday at 8.45pm.

The team assembled in Sandton, Johannesburg, yesterday for their first training session and will wrap up their training this morning before leaving for Europe tonight.

Loose forwards Dewald Potgieter and Ashley Johnson, scrumhalf Heini Adams, centre Juan de Jongh and fullback Earl Rose will make their debuts against Leicester on Friday.

Blue Bulls hooker Chiliboy Ralepelle, who last captained a Springbok team against a World XV in Leicester three years back, will captain the team.

"Our focus is fully on the Leicester match because it is important that we get the tour off to a good start. Winning the opening match will go a long way in motivating the players for the rest of the tour," said De Villiers yesterday.

"It is also important that we strive to give all of the newcomers game time in the opener.

"It is also great to have a host of players in the 22 that have played at Test level and can use their experience to assist the newcomers to settle in quickly."