Overview
- The tighthead played 48 minutes in the 61-7 win over Japan at Wembley, scrumming well and registering 13 rucks, nine tackles and a carry.
- Rassie Erasmus expressed satisfaction with the rookie’s first outing as Porthen became the youngest Springbok prop of the professional era.
- His selection followed a rapid rise from just five senior matches for the Stormers and a late call-up that saw him join the squad five days before kickoff.
- Media noted that injuries, unavailability and a ban affecting senior tightheads created the opening for his early debut.
- Porthen says he has already discussed technical work-ons with scrum coach Daan Human and hopes to remain involved as the tour moves on to France, then Italy, Ireland and Wales.