'Iron Man' Horn's return for 50th to strengthen Lions' URC top 8 chances, and Bok claims

If the Springbok coaches are planning on using Quan Horn as one of the "throwaway" caps for their opening match of the year - against Wales - they may have to get used to the idea of having him and his square jaw around a lot longer.

Throwaway sounds demeaning for what would be a lifetime opportunity for most of the players who will be involved in the world champions' opener.

However, because the match at Twickenham falls outside World Rugby's international window - and consequently would exclude established Test players - it may well be their only chance to wear the green and gold (a bit like those who played in Rassie Erasmus' first game in charge in 2018).