Overview
- Zachary Porthen became South Africa’s youngest Test prop and started in a 61-7 win over Japan at Wembley.
- He delivered a solid first outing, scrummaging competently and contributing in general play before Wilco Louw replaced him early in the second half.
- Porthen said the debut felt unreal and emotional, crediting senior teammates for calm guidance during the week.
- His promotion arrived far earlier than he expected after injuries, unavailability and a ban reduced the Springboks’ tighthead options.
- With only five senior Stormers appearances before this call-up, he says his priority is to remain in the squad, work on Daan Human’s feedback and, if selected, continue building through the tour now moving on to France.