Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus said the matches between the Boks and Barbarians and the SA 'A' team against Zimbabwe were vital to set the tone for the bumper season.
Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick will take charge of the South Africa A team in their fixture against Zimbabwe in Gqeberha on 20 June.
Former All Blacks captain Kieran Read believes the Springboks' unwavering identity and proven ability to thrive under pressure are key factors separating them from New Zealand's current side.
Lock Ruben van Heerden has been called up to the Springbok squad, linking up with the team in Johannesburg on Wednesday evening.
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Lancaster has explained why the organisation moved quickly to secure Tony Brown as an All Blacks assistant coach from 2028.
International stars from across the world, including Duhan van der Merwe have been named in the Barbarians squad to face the Springboks at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday, 20 June.