Brothers in Arms: Emmanuel and Vincent Tshituka embracing Saturday's special moment

The Congolese-born brothers received their South African IDs last year, which cleared them for national selection, and almost a year after Vincent made his Springbok debut against Italy, Emmanuel has followed suit, earning his first call-up for the expanded Springbok squad.

The Tshituka brothers will take the field together against Zimbabwe at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, with Vincent named as SA 'A' captain, while Emmanuel will start on the side of the scrum.

The 26-year-old, nicknamed 'Manu', was delighted to be part of the team, which will be led by Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick.

"It's a massive honour and privilege for myself and my brother," said Tshituka.

"About 18 months ago, we didn't expect or even think it would be possible to be in this environment, so we are very grateful and excited to rub shoulders with some of the best players in the world. Our family, wives, and friends are really happy for us. It's a massive privilege."

Much like all the new players in the group, Tshituka has used the last two weeks with the squad to learn as much as possible from both his brother and his teammates.

"Vincent has tried to give me as much advice as he can about the games, training sessions, and the standards to uphold, and he's really tried to prepare me for what to expect from his experience last year," said Emmanuel.

"But it hasn't only been from him, I've asked a couple of players and loose forwards, who have been in this environment for a long time, questions to learn as much as possible, and it's definitely helped me and made me feel more settled."

Adding to this special milestone in his career, Tshituka had something else to celebrate this week as he shared his birthday with Springbok captain Siya Kolisi - a memory that he will always cherish.

"It was actually surprising how the guys really tried to make it special for me," he said.

"I received a little cake in my room and several birthday wishes and messages from my teammates and the coaches, which was heartwarming."

While all the players in the group undoubtedly harbour ambitions to play for the Springboks, Tshituka said his only goal this week would be to do his best on the field on Saturday.

"To be a Springbok is more of a privilege than anything else, so for me personally, I just want to work hard and give my best every day, and whatever the outcome is, so be it. My only objective is to stay in the moment and use the opportunity that I've been given this weekend."

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