Leading the Springboks 'a dream come true'

The Springboks will start their international season with a Test against Wales in Washington DC on Saturday. 

The game is also the debut Test match in charge for Rassie Erasmus, the Director of Rugby at SA Rugby.

"It's a massive honour for me. It's something, when you become a Springbok, you always dream about to lead your national team. I'm just thankful for putting his trust in me for this weekend and hopefully I can make him and the rest of the country proud," Du Toit said. 

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Lock forward du Toit will captain a young Springbok team featuring seven uncapped players in the starting line-up. 

The seven players in the starting team who will be making their debut in the United States capital are Travis Ismaiel and Makazole Mapimpi (wings), Andre Esterhuizen (centre), Ivan van Zyl (scrumhalf), Kwagga Smith (flank), Jason Jenkins (lock) and Ox Nche (prop).

Wales had the upper hand over the Springboks in their last two encounters and will be especially motivated to continue that trend.

Du Toit said he is looking forward to seeing how the youngsters perform at Test level. 

"It's always nice when you are a youngster and you get capped, especially in a Test match. I think it's going to be a big task ahead of us tomorrow (Saturday) with all the youngster but I am sure they will be backed by the coaches as well and they have good plans in place for them as well, to get all the stress off them. I am really excited for them."