The Junior Boks are set to storm the Junior World Championship in Georgia under new captaincy, as Siphosethu Mnebelele steps up to lead following Riley Norton's ascent to the Springbok squad for the Nations Championship. As the team gears up to defend their crown won last year in Italy, they face not just opponent challenges but also shifts in their lineup due to injuries and promotions.
With Norton moving up, Thomas Beling fills his shoes as a utility forward, while Cheswill Jooste steps in for flyhalf Vusi Moyo, another fresh addition to Rassie Erasmus' Bok squad. The injury toll includes Zekhethelo Siyaya, who suffered concussion and facial injuries in a brutal clash during the South Africa A match against Zimbabwe, prompting the inclusion of wing Akahluwa Boqwana.
Yaqeen Ahmed, sidelined with a 20-minute red card suspension due to a dangerous tackle, will miss the first two games in Georgia, although he remains part of the squad. This reshuffling underscores the unpredictable nature of rugby, where physicality often leads to unexpected game-time decisions.
"Everyone in the Junior Bok set-up is delighted for Riley and Vusi, and we wish them well for the Nations Championship,"
stated Junior Boks coach Kevin Foote. He lauded the players' ascent as fulfilling"every young player’s dream to represent the Springboks."
Foote also commended the team's performance in a 40-0 demolition of Zimbabwe, viewing it as a testament to their readiness to produce the next wave of South African internationals. Despite the reshuffle, he remains optimistic about their preparation: "Injuries and call-ups to senior honours are part of the game. Fortunately, we planned for these scenarios, and the players brought into the squad are well integrated into our environment and game model. We are confident in our preparation and excited for the challenge ahead."
The tournament, spanning from June 27 to July 18, sees South Africa pitted against Wales, Georgia, and Uruguay in Pool A. The Junior Boks' squad boasts experienced players from last year's victorious team, including props Oliver Reid, Danie Kruger, and Rambo Kubheka; hooker Mnebelele; wing Jooste; and fullback Alzeadon Felix, all ready to defend their title on Georgian soil.
Junior Springboks Junior World Championship squad
Props: Oliver Reid (Stormers), Jordan Jooste (Stormers), Danie Kruger (Stormers), Rambo Kubheka (Sharks), Luan van der Berg (Bulls).
Hookers: Siphosethu Mnebelele (c, Sharks), Liam van Wyk (Sharks).
Locks: Heinrich Theron (Bulls), Jaythen Orange (Lions), JD Hattingh (Lions).
Loose forwards: Kebotile Maake (Bulls), Risima Khosa (Lions), Luke Cannon (Lions), Vuyo Gwiji (Lions), Wasi Vyambwera (Sharks), Gert Kemp (Stormers).
Utility