Betway has selected 23 supporters to form its 'Betway Squad' ahead of the Springboks' opening 2026 Test against the Barbarians in Gqeberha on 20 June, with each fan's name set to appear on the back of Springbok shorts in place of the Betway logo for the match.
Chosen from thousands of entries, the group spans lifelong supporters, multi-generational rugby families and first-time match attendees from across the country. The selected 23 will attend the Captain's Run during match week, where they will learn which player will carry their name onto the field, before taking in the full matchday experience.
Several selections carry particular personal weight. Yvette van der Westhuizen's father represented Eastern Province against the British & Irish Lions in 1974, making her inclusion a generational bookend in the Eastern Cape more than half a century on. Durell Bruintjies grew up in Schauderville, Gqeberha, and sees the recognition as a celebration of his community and playing career. Tando Funde, from King William's Town, played club rugby for Rock of Ages and grew up alongside Lukhanyo Am. Unathi Pebe described Springbok support as a family inheritance: "Loyalty, grit and the belief that we are always stronger together."
"The response to this initiative has been remarkable," said SA Rugby CEO Rian Oberholzer. Betway Africa Head of Sponsorship Jason Shield added that the campaign "exceeded all expectations."
The full Betway Squad, in alphabetical order: Anton Swart, Carlin April, Chris Young, Dalvene Titus, Danie Prinsloo, Denzil De Wet, Durell Bruintjies, Grant Britz, Junaid Adonis, Keevan Bonaparte, Kim Frost, Koos Bergh, Lezinda Bester, Lucian Coombs, Nthabiseng Ndini, Palesa Sihlahla, Shaun Sharpe, Sibu Ngidi, Steed Richardson, Tando Funde, Unathi Pebe, Yvette van der Westhuizen, Zoe O'Neill.