Saracens

16 Nov 2009 - 11:50

Saracens face the World and Tri-Nations champions at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday in a match described by Director of Rugby Brendan Venter as a ‘historic occasion’.

World Cup winner Wikus van Heerden will captain the Sarries side for the game in a matchday squad that also includes fellow Springbok internationals Neil de Kock, Derick Hougaard and Schalk Brits.

England Saxons stars Brad Barritt, Noah Cato, Alex Goode and Andy Saull will also get the chance to test themselves on the international stage against the touring side at the iconic Wembley Stadium.

Venter said: “It’s going to be a fantastic occasion. To have the chance to face an international side is an honour but to face the World Champions at Wembley Stadium is something very special. It’s a great opportunity for the players in our side and there will also be a few familiar faces on either side.

“Both squads got together for a meal on Sunday night and it was fantastic for the players and coaches to just sit down and have a chat and also see a few friendships renewed. But come kick-off on Tuesday night, both teams will want to win what promises to be a fiercely contested game and a historic occasion at one of the best sporting venues in the world.”

His views were echoed by Van Heerden who won 14 caps for his country and was part of the World Cup winning squad in France 2007.

“It’s really a special occasion which is being embraced by the whole community. I don’t expect anything less than international standards; it’s definitely going to be a tough one. I think that also is a reason why we, as Saracens, are really looking forward to it,” said van Heerden. “It’s a great opportunity for us to show what a quality side we are and how we measure up against the Springboks.”

Tickets for the match will be on sale on the night at Wembley priced £10 adults and £5 U16s. Beat the queues and pay cash on the night at Turnstile H. Alternatively, go to the East Box Office.

The match is taking place under IRB Regulations concerning matchday squad sizes which means both teams naming 22 players.

Saracens line-up vs South Africa

15 Michael Horak
14 Noah Cato
13 Kameli Ratuvou
12 Brad Barritt
11 Michael Tagicakibau
10 Derick Hougaard
9 Neil de Kock
1 Rhys Gill
2 Ethienne Reynecke
3 Richard Skuse
4 Mouritz Botha
5 Hugh Vyvyan
6 Wikus van Heerden (c)
7 Justin Melck
8 Ernst Joubert

16 Schalk Brits
17 Carlos Nieto
18 George Kruis
19 Andy Saull
20 Kevin Barrett
21 Alex Goode
22 Rodd Penney