As attention turns to the Springboks’ upcoming season, we look at three players who could earn surprise call-ups.
The world champion Springboks will soon be back in action, with a blockbuster 2024 Test schedule set to start with a clash against Wales.
As we look ahead to the highly anticipated international season, there are three players – who haven’t been spoken of much in a Springbok context – who could work their way into the Springbok mix.
OUR PICKS FOR THREE SPRINGBOK BOLTERS
Flyhalf for the Sharks, Siya Masuku, has had an amazing few months and is clearly in the greatest shape of his career.
He took over Curwin Bosch’s No. 10 jersey and has since flourished, contributing greatly to the Sharks’ comeback.
Because of his calm demeanor, ability to manage the game, and precision while kicking, the 27-year-old could be considered for the Springboks’ one-off Test matches against Wales and Portugal. The Bok coaches will definitely try some new lineups throughout those games.
“Siya’s a lovely story, isn’t he? He’s played well on the big stage now,” Sharks coach John Plumtree said this past weekend after Masuku scored 22 points to lead the Durban side into the Challenge Cup final. “I’m just really happy for him. He’s a very humble character. He feels very honoured to be playing in this jersey and he’s making the most of his opportunities.
“He will continue to improve. He still has room to grow as an athlete and in terms of skill set and passing ability. He hasn’t yet reached the edge of his ceiling. He is a self-assured small player.
“He has excellent kicking; when he attempts a touch, he looks for a distance of 40 meters instead of only 30. I adore his approach to the game and the way that other players view him. Right now, he is riding the wave’s crest.
Tyrone Green, a former junior Springbok, has had another fantastic season with the Harlequins, which was once again highlighted by the amazing try he manufactured and scored this past weekend.
Being one of the most clinical wings in the Premiership, Green has been one of the most threatening backline players for the ‘Quins when healthy and on form for a considerable amount of time.
A versatile utility back like Green is a great addition to the Springboks, given outside backs like Willie le Roux and Makazole Mapimpi are unlikely to play as much going forward.
He may also soon be eligible to play for England due to residence regulations, but coach Rassie Erasmus would do well to sign him as soon as possible because he has expressed a desire to play for the Springboks.
One more Springbok “bolter” might be Jarno Augustus, who at the Northampton Saints has really rejuvenated his career and helped guide the team to the top of the English Premiership.
The adaptable loose forward, who announced his entrance on the senior team after winning the World Rugby U20 Championship Player of 2017, has long been considered a possible future Springbok.
Augustus might be a dynamic, physically fit, ball-carrying asset to the Springboks’ abundant back-row depth.
In a recent interview with Planet Rugby, Augustus stated, “I think I can get a foot in the door if I can be the best player I can be.” However, I haven’t spoken with the coaches from South Africa. Allowing my rugby to take the
