https://cdn.24.co.za/files/Cms/General/d/8775/e4fd90ef15d34b489f1cb17fc1cb1bd5.jpg
Pieter Hendriks on his way to scoring against Australia at Newlands in 1995 (Getty Images)

WATCH | On this day 25 years ago - Springboks v Wallabies in 1995 RWC opener

Monday (25 May 2020) marks 25 years since the Springboks kicked off their 1995 Rugby World Cup campaign with a 27-18 win over Australia at Newlands.

The Wallabies were the defending champions and heavy favourites in the match, but came unstuck against a determined Springbok outfit led by Francois Pienaar.

Flyhalf Joel Stransky contributed 22 points which included a try, a conversion, four penalties and a drop goal, while wing Pieter Hendriks also crossed the whitewash for the hosts.

The Wallabies scored two tries via captain and flyhalf Michael Lynagh and hooker Phil Kearns, while Lynagh slotted a conversion and two penalties.

Pienaar's charges would go on to win the tournament when they also upset the All Blacks 15-12 in the final at Ellis Park a month later (24 June, 1995).

WATCH highlights of the opening match in the video clip below: