Springboks look to Ruben van Heerden to boost lock stocks

The Springboks continue their preparations for their season opener against the Barbarians next Saturday.

Their match against the BaaBaas (15:00) will be preceded by a clash between the SA 'A' team and Zimbabwe (12:00) at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on 20 June.

The 28-year-old former Junior Springbok lock, who has been a central figure in the Stormers pack in the United Rugby Championship this season, will replace Salmaan Moerat, who has been released from camp due to injury.

Van Heerden earned his 50th cap for the Stormers this season, while he also represented the Bulls, Sharks, and Exeter Chiefs earlier in his career.

Phepsi Buthelezi and Carlu Sadie, who were called up to the squad on Monday, meanwhile, have already reported for duty.

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus and assistant coach Mzwandile Stick, who will steer the SA 'A' team, will name their matchday squads for the respective clashes next week.

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