Barbarians head coach Robbie Deans has full confidence in his international stars ahead of their enticing Cape Town clash with the Springboks.
Speaking on Heart FM’s Super Saturdays with Jeremy Harris, Deans praised the Barbarians’ pride, history, and player quality as key motivators.
He emphasized the importance of playing with intent against the reigning world champions in their home country for the first time ever.
“These players are proud men who carry proud histories,” said Deans. “They don’t want to tarnish their reputations on the field.”
He said they aim to present a genuine challenge, not just for the Barbarians jersey, but in respect for the international stage itself.
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The match, set for Saturday, 28 June at Cape Town Stadium, marks the Barbarians’ first game ever on South African soil.
It’s also the ninth meeting between the sides and their first since a thrilling 31-31 draw at Wembley Stadium in 2016.
Deans acknowledged the Springboks as the “greatest team in the game” and believes the Barbarians must rise to that standard.
He said, “They will respect the Springboks, but they won’t want to spend the day chasing them all over the field.”
LEGENDS ASSEMBLE FOR SHORT BUT FOCUSED PREPARATION
With limited time to prepare, Deans must quickly unite a high-calibre squad featuring legends from Ireland and New Zealand.
Included in the line-up are Irish stars Peter O’Mahony, Cian Healy and Conor Murray, alongside All Blacks Sam Cane and Shannon Frizell.
“The timing’s tough, but we’ll put together a combination built on passion and respect for the Barbarians opportunity,” Deans stated.
He noted that while preparation time is short, commitment and camaraderie will be the foundation of the team’s performance.
HISTORY, CAMARADERIE AND RESPECT AT THE HEART OF OCCASION
Deans views the upcoming game as more than a contest — it’s a celebration of rugby values and lifelong rivalries turned partnerships.
“It’s unique – first time ever in South Africa, and it brings together players who’ve been opponents for over a decade,” he said.
With retiring greats like Peter O’Mahony captaining the side and former foes uniting, Deans says the event will be truly special.
“For Peter and Sam to play side by side … it reflects what rugby is – tradition, respect, and mutual admiration,” he concluded.
WHAT BOK TEAM WOULD YOU SELECT FOR BATTLE AGAINST DEANS’ MEN?
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