Springbok Camp Welcomes New Faces Ahead of 2025 International Rugby Season
The Springboks are entering their final phase of preparation for the 2025 international rugby calendar with a two-day alignment camp in Cape Town this week. This marks their second and final pre-season gathering. The much-anticipated campaign kicks off with a clash against the Barbarians in the Mother City next month.
The Springbok camp will feature a total of 54 players, with 36 present in person and 18 joining remotely from clubs in Japan and Europe. The focus will be on strategic planning. Players will take part in intensive off-field sessions designed to align the squad’s vision for a demanding season ahead. This year’s calendar includes home Tests against Italy and Georgia. It also includes the Rugby Championship and a northern hemisphere tour at year’s end.
Newcomers Step into the Spotlight
Among the attendees are several familiar faces. There are also a few exciting newcomers, offering a glimpse into the depth of talent being considered by the Springbok management.
One of the biggest talking points is the inclusion of three new players who are attending a national alignment camp for the first time. The Sharks’ Vincent Tshituka has been selected after a standout season. This was made possible by finally obtaining his South African identity document — a key step in becoming eligible to represent the country. The Congolese-born flanker has been a consistent performer. His selection is seen as a well-deserved reward.
Joining him is Juarno Augustus, whose consistent displays for Northampton Saints over the past few years have finally earned him a Springbok call-up. The powerful loose forward is set to move to Ulster next season. This puts him squarely in the spotlight of the Bok coaches during the upcoming United Rugby Championship.
Varsity Cup Star Earns Surprise Call-Up
In a surprising move, the Bok management has extended an invitation to Ntokozo Makhaza, the Varsity Cup’s standout player. The 23-year-old flyhalf captained UCT Ikeys to the title. He was named player of the tournament. Though he has not yet played professional rugby, he is set to join the Cheetahs ahead of the Currie Cup season in July — his first taste of the professional game.
Uncapped Players Looking to Impress
Beyond the trio of newcomers, five additional uncapped players have also been called up. These include Lions duo Renzo du Plessis and Asenathi Ntlabakanye. Also included are Stormers prop Neethling Fouche, Bulls forward Cobus Wiese, and hooker Marnus van der Merwe. He has been making waves at Scarlets in Wales.
With matches against Italy and Georgia looming, there’s a strong possibility that several of these fringe players could earn their Springbok debuts in July. The Bok coaches are expected to experiment with selections. Additionally, they may give fresh faces a platform to shine.
Returning Veterans Back in the Mix
Additionally, the camp signals a return to the national frame for a few experienced campaigners who have been sidelined. Lood de Jager and Faf de Klerk, both absent last year due to injury, are back in contention. Jean-Luc du Preez also returns, hoping to finally cement a place in the Bok setup after years of sporadic appearances.
As the Springboks begin shaping their squad for a jam-packed season, this alignment camp in Cape Town represents both a nod to experience and a step forward into a new era. Emerging talent is eager to make their mark.
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