Du Toit to debut as South Africa captain against Wales
Pieter-Steph du Toit will lead South Africa for the first time when they face Wales in a one-off Test in Washington this Saturday.
The 25-year-old Western Stormers forward was one of two skippers named Monday by new coach Johan 'Rassie' Erasmus for June Tests.
After Wales, Siya Kolisi will become the first black Test skipper of the Springboks, leading them in a three-Test home series against England.
Kolisi and many other likely starters against England were not considered for the Washington international.
First choice skipper Warren Whiteley and Eben Etzebeth, his stand-in last season, have been ruled out of the June Tests by injuries.
The team to play Wales will be named in Johannesburg Wednesday with 13 of the 26 contenders uncapped.
Former South African Rugby Player of the Year Du Toit can play lock or flanker and is the grandson of former Springbok prop Piet du Toit.
First capped in 2013 against Wales in Cardiff, he has made 32 international appearances and scored four tries.
While Stormers are experiencing a disastrous Super Rugby season -- losing eight of 13 matches -- Du Toit has consistently impressed in the set-pieces and loose exchanges.
South Africa squad
Forwards (16)
Nizaam Carr, Steven Kitshoff, Wilco Louw, Frans Malherbe, Bongi Mbonambi, Sikhumbuzo Notshe, Pieter-Steph du Toit (capt) (all Western Stormers), Akker van der Merwe, Daniel du Preez, Chiliboy Ralepelle, Thomas du Toit (all Coastal Sharks), Oupa Mohoje, Ox Nche (both Central Cheetahs), Marvin Orie, Kwagga Smith (both Golden Lions), Jason Jenkins (Northern Bulls)
Backs (10)
Warrick Gelant, Travis Ismaiel, Jesse Kriel, Embrose Papier, Ivan van Zyl (all Bulls), Curwin Bosch, Andre Esterhuizen, Makazole Mapimpi, Cameron Wright (all Sharks), Elton Jantjies (Lions)
Coach: Johan 'Rassie' Erasmus (RSA)