Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus and SA ‘A’ coach Mzwandile Stick have named strong squads for their opening matches of the season against the Barbarians and Zimbabwe respectively on Saturday in Gqeberha, with Siya Kolisi and Vincent Tshituka set to captain the two teams.
Excitement was palpable in the Springbok camp on Monday as preparations intensified for a busy week that will see the Springboks face the Barbarians and the SA ‘A’ team take on Zimbabwe.
Insisting that performance and physical output remain the only criteria that matter when selecting players, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has dismissed concerns about the age profile of his lock stocks. Speaking about the depth in the second row and the inclusion of young prospects such as Junior Springbok captain Riley Norton, Erasmus explained that age
The Springboks have bolstered their lock stocks with the call-up of Adre Smith to the national squad ahead of the clash against the Barbarians and the SA ‘A’ team’s encounter with Zimbabwe on Saturday, 20 June, in Gqeberha.
Springbok director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has clarified assistant coach Tony Brown’s future, insisting there was never any discussion about releasing him from his contract before the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie insists Bafana Bafana can still bounce back from their opening 2026 FIFA World Cup defeat against Mexico, drawing parallels with the Springboks’ historic 2019 Rugby World Cup triumph.
The Vodacom Bulls squad travelling to Dublin for next Friday’s Vodacom United Rugby Championship (VURC) final reflects a carefully balanced blend of experience, youth and versatility, placing the team in a strong position for the demands of a high-pressure occasion.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has moved to allay concerns over South Africa’s injury situation, insisting the world champions remain in a strong position despite a lengthy casualty list ahead of the international season.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has moved to allay concerns over South Africa’s injury situation, insisting the world champions remain in a strong position despite a lengthy casualty list ahead of the international season.