SportsSports Guides & News

Springboks vs Australia: Rassie Names 37-Man Squad with Fresh Faces

Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has unveiled a 37-player squad to take on Australia in the opening rounds of the Rugby Championship. This squad features a balanced mix of seasoned campaigners and new Test talent.

Rising Stars Join the Bok Fold

Among the most notable inclusions are five players who earned their first Springbok caps during the July Test window. They are Ethan Hooker (utility back), Asenathi Ntlabakanye and Boan Venter (props), Marnus van der Merwe (hooker), and Cobus Wiese (utility forward). Their selection highlights Erasmus’s ongoing commitment to developing depth in the national team setup.

Meanwhile, Thomas du Toit, who plies his trade at Bath, has been placed on a mandated two-week rest period. This is in line with an agreement with Premiership Rugby. However, he remains eligible for a call-up if needed. Jasper Wiese, currently serving a four-week ban, will miss the Australian Tests.

Strategic Rotations and Key Absences

To optimise player readiness, several squad members have been released back to their domestic teams. This allows them to gain valuable minutes in the Currie Cup. However, they remain on standby should the need arise. This standby group includes experienced Springboks like Lukhanyo Am, Faf de Klerk, Makazole Mapimpi, Salmaan Moerat, Evan Roos, Neethling Fouche, and Vincent Tshituka.

“It’s always difficult trimming the squad down,” Erasmus admitted. “The larger group performed well during the Incoming Series, but we’ve opted for a more streamlined squad for these first two matches.”

He added, “This group offers a healthy blend of experience and promising youth. We have solid coverage in all positions, typically three players per role. This is crucial in a competition of this intensity.”

Building Depth for the Future

Erasmus reaffirmed the Springboks’ long-term vision: “Developing squad depth remains a priority for us. The best way to assess the readiness of younger players is to pit them against the world’s best.”

In line with this philosophy, three Junior Springboks have been invited to train with the national side for the next two weeks. This will offer them a valuable opportunity to acclimate to the demands of top-tier international rugby.

“We’re extremely proud of our Junior Boks’ efforts,” Erasmus said. “This exposure will help them understand our systems and elevate their performance standards.”

Full Springbok Squad to Face Australia

Forwards:
Lood de Jager, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Jean-Luc du Preez, Eben Etzebeth, Vincent Koch, Siya Kolisi, Wilco Louw, Malcolm Marx, Bongi Mbonambi, Franco Mostert, Ox Nche, Ruan Nortje, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman, Marnus van der Merwe, Marco van Staden, Boan Venter, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Cobus Wiese.

Backs:
Kurt-Lee Arendse, Damian de Allende, Andre Esterhuizen, Aphelele Fassi, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Ethan Hooker, Jesse Kriel, Cheslin Kolbe, Willie le Roux, Manie Libbok, Canan Moodie, Handre Pollard, Cobus Reinach, Edwill van der Merwe, Morne van den Berg, Grant Williams, Damian Willemse.

As the Springboks gear up to take on the Wallabies, this squad represents both continuity and evolution. Fresh talent is bolstering the tried-and-tested core. The message is clear: the road to Rugby World Cup 2027 starts with bold selections and fearless development.

Related article: Springboks Struggle Without Siya Kolisi’s Composure in the Chaos

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button