Fullback Clayton Blommetjies makes his return from injury for DHL Western Province in the Carling Currie Cup encounter with the Novavit Griffons in Welkom on Sunday (3pm kick-off).
There will also be Western Province debuts for wing Jared Africa, centre Jonathan Roche, props Mhleli Khuzwayo and Nicolas Roebeck and lock Andre Goehals.
The bulk of the debutants have shown their worth for the DHL Western Province Under-21 side and will be eager to make an impression for the senior team at Down Touch Investments Stadium.
Director of Rugby John Dobson said that there is a good blend of youth and experience in the team.
"While we have a few young players getting an opportunity, there are also some wise older heads in the matchday squad that will provide crucial guidance.
"It is also great to see more local club players getting like Nicolas Roebeck coming through and credit must go to Jerome Paarwater for his work in identifying more promising talent.
"The trip to Welkom will be a good experience for everyone involved and we know it will have to be a focused 80-minute performance if we are to get the result we are looking for," he said.
DHL Western Province starting XV: 15 Clayton Blommetjies, 14 Jared Africa, 13 Luke Burger, 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 Angelo Davids; 10 Jurie Matthee, 9 Imad Khan; 8 Willie Engelbrecht (capt), 7 Louw Nel, 6 Paul de Villiers; 5 Gary Porter, 4 Hendre Stassen; 3 Vernon Matongo, 2 JJ Kotze, 1 Mhleli Khuzwayo. Replacements: 16 Lukhanyo Vokozela, 17 Nicolas Roebeck, 18 Corne Weilbach, 19 Andre Goehals, 20 CJ Velleman, 21 Labib Kannemeyer, 22 Damian Markus, 23 Courtnall Skosan.
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