The bulk of De Villiers’ 42-man party are expected to form the final group to take on Wales in a two-match Test series early next month.

The new caps are Heini Adams, Isma-eel Dollie, Jongi Nokwe, Zane Kirchner, Louis Ludik, Earl Rose, Andries Bekker, Schalk Brits, Wian du Preez, Gerhard Mostert, Brian Mujati and Duane Vermeulen.

No Sharks players have been included because of their Super 14 involvement but overseas-based World Cup winners John Smit, Victor Matfield, Butch James and Percy Montgomery are involved.

South Africa 42-man training squad:

Backs: Heini Adams, Gcobani Bobo, Meyer Bosman, Tonderai Chavhanga, Jean de Villiers, Isma-eel Dollie, Fourie du Preez, Jaque Fourie, Peter Grant, Bryan Habana, Butch James, Enrico Januarie, Conrad Jantjes, Zane Kirchner, Louis Ludik, Percy Montgomery, Akona Ndungane, Jongi Nokwe, Wynand Olivier, Earl Rose.

Forwards: Andries Bekker, Bakkies Botha, Schalk Brits, Schalk Burger, Wian du Preez, Kabamba Floors, Hilton Lobberts, Victor Matfield, Gerhard Mostert, Brian Mujati, Chiliboy Ralepelle, Danie Rossouw, John Smit (capt), Juan Smith, Pierre Spies, Gurthro Steenkamp, CJ van der Linde, Heinke van der Merwe, Wikus van Heerden, Joe van Niekerk, Luke Watson, Duane Vermeulen.