Romania's Gorin to make Rugby World Cup debut aged 35 against Springboks
Romania back-rower Andre Gorin will make his Rugby World Cup debut this weekend at the age of 35 against holders South Africa, head coach Eugen Apjok announced on Friday.
Flanker Gorin, centre Taylor Gontineac and second-row Marius Iftimiciuc are the new faces for Sunday's game in Bordeaux after last weekend's heavy loss to Ireland.
"After world number one team Ireland, then South Africa, second in the world and world champion, you can only be enthusiastic," Apjok said.
"It's a great opportunity for us and for our youngsters who will learn," he added.
After the Springboks, Romania, who are 19th in the world rankings, face Scotland and Tonga in their remaining games in Pool B. They have never reached the quarter-finals in eight attempts.
Team (15-1)
Marius Simionescu; Tevita Manumua, Jason Tomane, Taylor Gontineac, Nicholas Onutu; Hinckley Vaovasa, Gabriel Rupanu; Cristian Chirica (capt), Vlad Neculau, Andre Gorin; Marius Iftimiciuc, Adrian Motoc; Alexandru Gordas, Ovidiu Cojocaru, Iulian Hartig
Replacements: Robert Irimescu, Alexandru Savin, Thomas Cretu, Stefan Iancu, Damian Stratila, Cristi Bovoc, Alin Conache, Gabriel Pop
Coach: Eugen Apjok (ROM)
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