Springbok assistant coach Duane Vermeulen has thrown his full support behind Evan Roos ahead of his return to the No. 8 jersey, describing Saturday’s Test against Scotland as the ideal opportunity for the Stormers star to cement his place in the national side.
Ntuthuko Mchunu believes his impressive resurgence with the Stormers has prepared him to make the most of his latest Springbok opportunity, with the loosehead prop determined to build on the confidence gained during a standout United Rugby Championship campaign.
Embrose Papier admits there will always be nerves before pulling on the Springbok jersey, but the experienced scrumhalf says excitement has outweighed any anxiety as he prepares for his long-awaited return to the international stage.
SA Rugby has announced a new partnership with Oakley, with the world-renowned performance eyewear and lifestyle brand becoming the official eyewear sponsor of the Springboks and all South African national rugby teams.
The outstanding form shown by Embrose Papier this season made his return to the national squad impossible to ignore, with the scrumhalf earning a deserved recall after years of fierce competition for the No. 9 jersey, according to Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus says age is never the deciding factor when selecting his squad, insisting players earn their place by proving they can cope with the demanding intensity of the team’s training environment.
Springbok utility back Damian Willemse has praised South Africa’s resilient squad depth and “winning culture” after debutant Paul de Villiers and the matchday replacements seamlessly overcame the late, dramatic withdrawals of both Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth against England.
Paul de Villiers admitted making his Springbok debut against England after receiving a late call-up was a nerve-racking experience, but said the support of his teammates and the squad’s meticulous preparation allowed him to embrace the occasion and produce a performance he will never forget.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has stayed true to his objective of giving as many players in his squad as possible an opportunity to stake their claim at the highest level this season, making 10 changes to his starting XV for Saturday’s Nations Championship Test against Scotland in Pretoria.