Squad Announcement and Player Returns
The Springboks have named a 43-player squad for the upcoming Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Series against the All Blacks and a Test match against Argentina. Coach Rassie Erasmus has adopted a strategic approach, with a group of players gathering in Johannesburg to prepare for the Buenos Aires clash, while five players have been released to their franchises to play against New Zealand.
Ten experienced internationals are returning from injury, significantly bolstering the squad. Among these are Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi, and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. Other returning players include Lood de Jager, Franco Mostert, Morne van den Berg, Handre Pollard, Andre Esterhuizen, Ethan Hooker, and Canan Moodie.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who played at number 10 last year, is set to return for the All Blacks Tests and could potentially feature against the Pumas in Buenos Aires. Kolisi and Etzebeth, who were late withdrawals from a previous match against England, have recovered and are part of the squad. Etzebeth’s return, along with de Jager and Mostert, adds significant experience to the lock positions, with the trio contributing 298 international caps.
The coaching staff will also benefit from the return of Handre Pollard from a hamstring strain and Morne van den Berg at scrum-half. Utility backs Ethan Hooker and Canan Moodie are fit, as is Andre Esterhuizen, who recovered from a cheekbone injury.
Key Selections and Player Development
Despite the return of experienced players, Vusi Moyo, a 20-year-old pivot, has retained his place in the squad. Although he has limited professional experience, the coaching team aims to nurture his potential. His inclusion provides valuable experience, especially if there are setbacks in the fly-half position.
Paul de Villiers, who impressed in Kolisi’s absence, has earned praise for his performances against England, Scotland, and Wales, including a man-of-the-match award in one of those games. His rise has been described as meteoric, and he is now competing for a spot in the matchday 23.
Vincent Tshituka’s versatility, being able to play in both the back and second rows, was a factor in his selection. He earned his spot through club form and offers strengths in lineouts, gain line play, and leadership. Elrigh Louw, initially left out, has rejoined the squad following an injury to Riley Norton. His form against Scotland showed a return to his abrasive style, and he also offers versatility across the back-five forward positions.
Johan Grobbelaar, a hooker, appears to be establishing himself as a strong contender behind Malcolm Marx, having been part of the squad since 2024. Carlu Sadie, who made his official debut against the Barbarians and later impressed against Wales, has also been included, potentially getting a chance against the All Blacks.
Upcoming Fixtures and Squad Management
The Springboks will begin preparations in Johannesburg for the Test match against Los Pumas in Buenos Aires on 8 August. Following this, they will face the All Blacks in four Tests:
- Ellis Park, Johannesburg (22 August)
- DHL Stadium, Cape Town (29 August)
- FNB Stadium, Johannesburg (5 September)
- M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, USA (12 September)
Erasmus has divided the squad into two groups: one for the trip to Argentina and another to train in South Africa. Ruben van Heerden, a lock who recently moved to Montpellier, has been omitted from the main groups but remains on standby.
The five players released to their franchises to play against the All Blacks in midweek matches are Ntuthuko Mchunu, Evan Roos, Andre-Hugo Venter, Embrose Papier, and Jaco Williams. This decision aims to provide valuable game time and opportunities for all players to stake a claim for a spot in the final squad for the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Series.
Erasmus highlighted the challenge posed by Argentina, noting their victory over the Springboks in Buenos Aires in 2024.
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Source: planetrugby.com
