South Africa pull clear in second half to beat battling Wales

The Springboks, who are building for a two-Test series against fellow heavyweights Ireland in July, often struggled to impose themselves on a first outing since retaining the World Cup eight months ago.

South Africa's Jesse Kriel celebrates after scoring his sides first try against Wales. Picture: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire.

Weakened Wales produced a battling performance before world champions South Africa turned on the power to triumph 41-13 at Twickenham.

Despite conceding two tries and collecting two yellow cards during the opening 15 minutes, Warren Gatland's team defied most pre-match odds by making it a contest until two late South African scores.