Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus shocked when he included 21-year-old Zachary Porthen in his 23-man match-day squad to face Japan

The prop is a name unfamiliar to international rugby circles. This comes since he has only played a handful of matches for his local franchise, the Stormers. 

Regardless, Erasmus has placed his faith in SA Rugby’s developmental systems. He revealed that he was impressed with what he had seen from the former Junior Springbok captain.

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“He proved at United Rugby Championship level and with the Junior Springboks what he can do. We are looking forward to seeing what he can offer