Bulls flyhalf Morné Steyn is the only newcomer in the 28-man Springbok squad that Peter de Villiers named on Monday, to face the British and Irish Lions in a three-Test series later this month.

Steyn deserved his Bok call-up after his standout performances in the Super 14 for the Bulls. But there will be many questions about the omission of Heinrich Brussow and Zane Kirchner, and the inclusion of Earl Rose and Ricky January.

Sharks prop Deon Carstens and Bulls centre Wynand Olivier return to the squad after having last played for the Boks in 2007.