RANKED: The Summer's Debutant Springboks ahead of All Blacks tour [5-1]

Rassie Erasmus used the three-match campaign to expose a number of fresh faces to the international environment, with five players earning their first Test caps across victories over England, Scotland and Wales.

There was also valuable experience for another rising star. Riley Norton, captain of the Junior Springboks and one of the most promising forwards in the country, was called into the wider squad and featured in the uncapped clash with the Barbarians. While that appearance does not count as a Test debut, the experience of stepping into the senior Springbok environment will be invaluable for the U20 skipper.

But which of the five genuine debutants made the biggest impression? From an unexpected call-up to a historic first appearance, a devastating scrummaging display and a dream debut on the wing, here is our ranking of the Springboks’ Nations Championship debutants.

After years of consistent performances at provincial and club level, Ruben van Heerden finally received his opportunity in the Green and Gold against Wales. The Stormers lock started in Durban and quietly delivered a highly dependable debut. He worked tirelessly, operated the lineout effectively and provided a solid platform alongside Ruan Nortje. Van Heerden may not have been the most eye-catching debutant, but he was never out of place in a dominant Springbok performance. A reliable first step into Test rugby.

The biggest compliment that can be paid to Vusi Moyo is that the 20-year-old simply did not look out of place. Despite having made only one URC appearance for the Sharks, the fly-half showed impressive composure, a strong tactical kicking game and the courage to attack. Moyo created Jesse Kriel’s try with a superb cross-field kick, kicked three conversions and defended his channel bravely during 47 minutes on debut. A hugely encouraging first appearance.

Carlu Sadie could hardly have asked for a more memorable introduction to Test rugby. The prop was visibly emotional during the anthems, before turning his attention to the Welsh scrum and delivering a brutal reminder of why he had been selected. Sadie repeatedly got the better of Rhys Carre at scrum time, driving the Welsh loosehead backwards and helping establish total Springbok dominance up front. His work around the park was quieter, but that hardly mattered. In the set-piece, he was outstanding.

Jaco Williams enjoyed the kind of debut every young winger dreams about. The Sharks speedster scored a try, created another for Herschel Jantjies and made a decisive contribution to South Africa’s victory over Wales. His aerial ability was immediately evident, winning a contestable kick in the closing stages of the first half to set up a try before crossing the whitewash himself shortly after the restart. Williams’ rise has drawn comparisons with Makazole Mapimpi, and his first Test appearance offered plenty of evidence that the comparison is not without merit.

Paul de Villiers was the standout of an impressive Springbok debut class. His introduction to Test rugby was remarkable: he woke up on matchday not even named in the squad, only to be thrust into the starting XV on the blindside flank after his captain Siya Kolisi’s late withdrawal against England.

De Villiers responded by producing a composed, energetic performance in the win over Steve Borthwick's side and retaining his place for the following two Tests. His ability to seize an unexpected opportunity, establish himself immediately and remain trusted throughout the series made him the clear No. 1.