2025 Springbok Test series opener: South Africa vs Italy preview

This is the first of two test matches which will take place this year against Italy, and for the Springboks, it will offer welcome preparation for their upcoming season. 

For the Azzurri, they will be chasing a first victory against the Springboks on South African soil and will no doubt see this an opportunity to showcase their fearless approach and tactical maturity. 

For punters targeting specialist wagers, check out online betting sites with the best odds, where markets update live to reflect the game's momentum.

South Africa's Form

Rassie Erasmus, once again the head coach of the Springboks, will be looking to fine tune his squad throughout these encounters with one eye on the Rugby Championship and a lasting thought for the upcoming Rugby World Cup. 

Siya Kolisi is still a captain leading with distinction, but there are new names in the Bok camp which might secure a feature in these games. 

Handre Pollard is still a stable option with his boot at ten, but with the growing stature of Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Manie Libbok, the Springboks are not short of healthy competition. 

Italy's Tour Ambitions 

In truth, the work Gonzalo Quesada is doing with the Italian national side is quietly impressive. They may have finished fifth at the Six Nations earlier this year, but they stunned France in Rome and went toe-to-toe with England in an enthralling 21-18 game at Twickenham. 

They have a blend of youth and experience, a group of players who might look back to Florence in 2016 but know that this time they have to contend with the altitude and physicality of South Africa in South Africa. 

Forward Pack Face-Off

Usually, the cornerstone of any Springboks side, their forward pack is often uncompromising. For any team facing the Springboks, dealing with their power at scrum time or the danger of their maul and lineout often undoes opponents. 

For Italy, their own pack has steadily grown in stature. Their maul defence was on full display in the Six Nations and the battle at the breakdown will no doubt be fiercely contested. 

If the visitors are able to weather the early South African storm, they certainly have the pack and backline to ask the world champions questions.

Back-Line Battles and Key Matchups 

One battle which immediately springs to mind is the potential clash between Damian de Allende and Luca Morisi. The South African is often characterized by his brute strength and leadership, while for the Italian, his versatility with ball in hand makes him a serious danger. 

Another important aspect here could be the goal-kicking battle between Pollard and Garbisi. While the former certainly knows how to win close encounters with his boot and apply pressure throughout the game, Garbisi has developed his contestable kick and ability to play with tempo into a real weapon for his country. 

Stakes for World Rankings and Momentum

South Africa come into this test series as the number one ranked men's rugby team in the world. They are currently enjoying an absolute purple patch in the country's history, and will no doubt want to ensure they remind their closest rivals that they are number one for a reason. 

For Italy, they are now inside the top ten of the world rankings and will be looking to make a massive statement before heading into the autumn internationals later this year. 

Momentum is often such an underrated thing, but for these two teams, it will be well-sought out. The visitors will be looking for some sort of success as validation for their latest performances – but they face the reigning world champions and number one ranked nation in the world at home, it will always be a tough series.