De Villiers has included 18 members of the 2007 World Cup winning-squad, including 12 players who were in the starting XV when the Springboks beat England 15-6 to clinch the title in Paris four years ago.
Only retired full-back Percy Montgomery and prop Os du Randt and injured loose forward Juan Smith are missing from the victorious team.
Forwards Juan Smith, BJ Botha and Andries Bekker were all unavailable because of injury.
Wing Odwa Ndungane was the shock inclusion in the squad after getting the nod ahead of fellow Coastal Sharks star Lwazi Mvovo.
"The squad has a backbone of proven title-winning ability and experience as well as a strong component of new stars," said de Villiers.
South Africa open their defence against Wales in Wellington on 11 September and they will also face Namibia, Fiji and Samoa in Group D in New Zealand.
South Africa: Backs: Francois Steyn, Gio Aplon, Patrick Lambie, Bryan Habana, Odwa Ndungane, JP Pietersen, Juan de Jongh, Jaque Fourie, Jean de Villiers, Butch James, Morne Steyn, Fourie du Preez, Francois Hougaard, Ruan Pienaar.
Forwards: Pierre Spies, Willem Alberts, Heinrich Brussow, Schalk Burger, Francois Louw, Bakkies Botha, Victor Matfield, Johann Muller, Danie Rossouw, Jannie Du Plessis, CJ van der Linde, Bismarck du Plessis, Chiliboy Ralepelle, John Smit (capt), Tendai Mtawarira, Guthro Steenkamp.
Gilbert has released a new line of rugby cleats. The Gilbert Virtuo 8S is part of the exciting new product. Check it out.
The entire All Blacks apparel line has been updated for 2013/14. Check out the New Zealand All Blacks polo.
The Nike Tiempo is a solid rugby cleat and one of few styles still made from full-grain natural leather.
The Gilbert Blitz 8S rugby cleat is a great cleat at a great price of $69.99. Get a new pair of cleats today.
A cool looking all black rugby cleat with the high performance adidas is known for. Get in the Gear!
Wear the crest of the British and Irish Lions on your t-shirt. A great look for the summer.
$29.99
The All Blacks Performance t-shirt is black with hints of blue from the training jersey. Very Cool.
The New Zealand All Blacks training jersey for 2013/14. Get in the Gear!
The USA Rugby Pro Alternate rugby jersey is perfect for any fan of the Eagles. Get yours to wear during the summer Test matches.
The NEW All Blacks 2013/14 jersey has arrived at World Rugby Shop. Dare to wear the colors of the All Blacks.
