The Barbarians have continued to build their squad for Saturday's non-cap international against the Springboks in Port Elizabeth, with Stormers duo Warrick Gelant and Oliver Kebble among the latest additions to a roster that spans multiple Test nations.
Kebble, 33, joins the BaaBaas for what will be his third stint with the invitation club and his first appearance against the Springboks in Barbarians colours. The Scotland loosehead — capped 12 times at international level and the son of former Bok Guy Kebble — confirmed he received the call-up while having lunch with his father. "At least I could share it with him first," he said.
Kebble was pragmatic about the dynamic Saturday's match creates. With no squad places or rankings on the line for the BaaBaas, he acknowledged the pressure sits squarely on the Springbok side. "We're just having fun," he said. "To bring so many special players into one room — some of the best guys in their positions — is special. Not everyone gets the invite."
The BaaBaas backline will carry significant firepower, with South African-born Scotland wing Duhan van der Merwe, 49-cap Wallaby Andrew Kellaway, Argentine flyhalf Tomás Albornoz and Uruguay scrumhalf Santiago Arata all named. TJ Perenara, who accumulated 89 Tests as a former All Blacks vice-captain, adds further depth and experience at nine. Scotland squad members D'Arcy Rae and Liam McConnell complete the current known selection.
The coaching team pairs former All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson with Argentine master Felipe Contepomi.