Springbok Squad Announced: New Faces and Strategic Planning for Rugby Championship
South Africa has announced a 37-player squad for upcoming Rugby Championship tests against Australia. Experienced World Cup winners are on standby, while five newcomers are included. Coach Rassie Erasmus focuses on team depth in preparation for the 2027 World Cup, inviting emerging talents from the Under-20 team for experience.
South Africa has unveiled its squad of 37 players for the upcoming Rugby Championship tests against Australia, set in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Notably absent from the lineup are World Cup winners Lukhanyo Am, Faf de Klerk, and Makazola Mapimpi, who remain on standby in case of injuries.
Coach Rassie Erasmus has opted to include fresh talent in the team, with new caps such as Ethan Hooker, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Boan Venter, Marnus van der Merwe, and Cobus Wiese making the list. In alignment with agreements with the English Premiership, Thomas du Toit will take a two-week rest, while Jasper Wiese serves a suspension.
Erasmus is focused on deepening the squad's roster, anticipating the 2027 Rugby World Cup. This plan includes integrating young players by inviting three standouts from the South African Under-20 World Cup-winning team — Bathobele Hlekani, Cheswill Jooste, and Haashim Pead — adding depth and experience to the squad.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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