Hanro Liebenberg to captain Barbarians vs All Blacks XV

Barbarian F.C. will take on the All Blacks XV at the Gtech Community Stadium in London on 1st November.

Leicester Tigers forward Hanro Liebenberg has been named captain for the clash. The starting XV has a strong South African influence, featuring Bongi Mbonambi, Oli Kebble, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Ernst van Rhyn and Ruben van Heerden, alongside back-rowers Liebenberg, Fitz Harding and Evan Roos.

Rhodri Williams starts at scrum-half, partnered by Rob du Preez at fly-half. In midfield, Benhard Janse van Rensburg teams up with Matias Moroni, while Max Mallins starts at full-back. Wingers Werner Kok and Leolin Zas provide pace and attacking threat.

Head coach Pat Lam praised the spirit within the squad, noting that 17 players are making their first Barbarians appearance.

“We’re excited to see the boys come together as a group and the weekend will be a celebration of our week together,” Lam said.

The replacements include Stormers hooker Andre-Hugo Venter, Alistair Vermaak, Connacht’s Jack Aungier, Cobus Wiese and Batho Hlekani for forward cover. Brad Weber, Dan du Plessis and Rhyno Smith add options among the backs.

South Africa XV: Oli Kebble, 2. Bongi Mbonambi, 3. Asenathi Ntlabakanye, 4. Ernest van Ryhn, 5. Ruben van Heerden, 6. Hanro Liebenberg (capt), 7. Fitz Harding, 8. Evan Roos, 9. Rhodri Williams, 10. Rob du Preez, 11. Leolin Zas, 12. Benhard Janse van Rensburg, 13. Matias Moroni, 14. Werner Kok, 15. Max Malins

Reserves: 16 Andre-Hugo Venter, 17. Alistair Vermaak, 18. Jack Aungier, 19. Cobus Wiese, 20. Batho Hlekani, 21. Brad Webber, 22. Dan du Plessis, 23. Rhyno Smith