Springbok utility back Damian Willemse has praised South Africa’s resilient squad depth and “winning culture” after debutant Paul de Villiers and the matchday replacements seamlessly overcame the late, dramatic withdrawals of both Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth against England.

Paul de Villiers admitted making his Springbok debut against England after receiving a late call-up was a nerve-racking experience, but said the support of his teammates and the squad’s meticulous preparation allowed him to embrace the occasion and produce a performance he will never forget.

The Springboks’ ability to adapt under pressure, coupled with the squad’s ever-growing depth, proved decisive in their commanding victory over England at Ellis Park, according to Damian Willemse, who celebrated his 50th Test cap alongside fellow milestone man Cheslin Kolbe.

The Springboks romped to a convincing 45-21 victory over a valiant England side, crossing for seven tries in front of a crowd of 52,790 at Ellis Park to kick off their Nations Championship campaign with a statement bonus-point win.

Rassie Erasmus has leapt to the defence of England’s rising star Henry Pollock, insisting the 21-year-old should be judged on his rugby rather than the perception that has made him one of the game’s most divisive young figures.

For Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, Ellis Park is more than just another Test venue. It is a place where South African rugby history was made, and one that continues to inspire the current Springbok generation to create lasting memories of their own.

The South African Rugby Union (SARU) has moved to reduce ticket prices for the highly anticipated Springboks clash against England in the Nations Championship at Ellis Park on Saturday.

Springbok prop Ox Nche expects England to provide a formidable challenge up front when the two sides meet, warning that the visitors’ scrum remains one of the strongest aspects of their game.

Rassie Erasmus has hailed Cheslin Kolbe as the ultimate example of why heart matters more than size, paying an emotional tribute to the Springbok wing ahead of his milestone 50th Test appearance.