Mapaballo Borotho

The Springboks started their 2025 season on a high note, beating Italy 42-24 in the first of the two summer tests at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Tshwane on Saturday, July 5.
South Africa dominated the first half, crossing the try line four times to establish a commanding 28–3 lead at the break.
Scrumhalf Morne van den Berg impressed with a brace of tries, helping set the tone for a confident Bok performance in front of a home crowd.
However, Italy came out strong in the second half of the game, scoring four tries, including efforts from Pablo Dimcheff and Niccolo Cannone, narrowing the gap to 35-24.
But Marco van Staden sealed the victory for the Boks with a late try, stretching the lead to 42–24 and shutting down any hopes of the Italian team.
In a post on Instagram, SA Rugby congratulated the team, acknowledging that while the match had its challenges, the boys opened the season on a high note.
Meanwhile, in off-field developments, SA Rugby announced the opening of its first official Springbok retail store in Sandton City.
The launch also includes a brand-new online store, with plans to expand physical locations across the country in the near future.
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