Two players, both with a point to prove, will face off against each other at Twickenham on Saturday, writes BRENTON CHELIN.

Juan de Jongh hasn't played a Test for the Springboks since 2012. He's been in and around the squad since then, most recently during the June Tests before an unfortunate injury ruled him out.

His performances as captain during Western Province's run to the Currie Cup title have made him a Bok candidate once again, but for one reason or another Heyneke Meyer has opted to overlook him for the end-of-year tour.

De Jongh is undoubtedly talented, but at 1.75m and 88kg, his size counts against him, especially at international level. His opposite number on Saturday is a powerhouse outside centre, whose physicality can cause problems in even the most organised of defences. The Barbarians aren't noted for their defence.

Tevita Kuridrani had an outstanding Rugby Championship campaign. Against the Boks in Cape Town, the hosts' defence resembled Swiss cheese as he punched hole after hole, beating six defenders and making 215 running metres. He's proven his Test quality.

However, there is a new coach in charge of the Wallabies. Michael Cheika remains a big fan of Adam Ashley-Cooper, the player who held the No 13 jersey in the Waratahs' title-winning side. If Kuridrani wants to retain his place, he'll need to replicate his performance from Cape Town in the cold and wet of Twickenham.

Both are dangerous with ball in hand, for very different reasons. It's an intriguing battle, and one that could well be determined by the quality of ball they receive. However, an overly expansive approach from the Barbarians could provide Kuridrani with the time and space to inflict severe damage on De Jongh's chances of a Bok recall.

Photos: Philippe Lopez/Ryan Wilkisky/AFP Photo/BackpagePix