The China Mail - Irish legend O'Mahony to lead BaaBaas in South Africa

The 35-year-old retired as a Test flanker after the 2025 Six Nations Championship having made 114 appearances and played his final match for Munster in the United Rugby Championship last month.

O'Mahony forms a vastly experienced back row with two former All Blacks, fellow flanker Sam Cane and number 8 Shannon Frizell, who both play in Japan.

In the matchday 23, there are 17 who have played at Test level, including another recent retiree, loosehead prop Cian Healy, who holds the Irish record with 137 international appearances.

It is the first time the Barbarians have played in South Africa. They won four, drew one and lost three of eight previous meetings. They last met in 2016, drawing 31-31 at Wembley Stadium.

The Cape Town game marks the start of the season for the Springboks, who will also play 13 Tests, starting with a match against Italy in Pretoria on July 5.

Team (15-1)

Melvyn Jaminet (FRA); Mark Telea, Leicester Fainga'anuku, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens; Josh Jacomb, Tawera Kerr-Barlow; Shannon Frizell, Sam Cane (all NZL), Peter O'Mahony (IRL, capt); David Ribbans (ENG), Ruben van Heerden (RSA); Paul Alo-Emile (SAM), Camille Chat (FRA), Cian Healy (IRL)

Replacements: Ricky Riccitelli (RSA), Hassane Kolingar (FRA), Will Collier (ENG), Josh Beehre, Hoskins Sotutu (both NZL), Santiago Arata (URU), Joe Marchant (ENG), Lachlan Boshier (NZL)

Coach: Robbie Deans (NZL)

X.So--ThChM