The Junior Springboks have undergone significant changes ahead of the 2026 World Junior Championship in Georgia, following the elevation of key players to the senior ranks and injuries impacting the squad. The adjustments come as head coach Kevin Foote prepares his team to defend their title, with the tournament kicking off on June 27.
Siphosethu Mnebelele, usually seen orchestrating the game from the hooker position, has been appointed as the new captain for South Africa U20s. This leadership shift follows the promotion of former captain Riley Norton to Rassie Erasmus’ Springboks squad for the upcoming Nations Championship clashes against traditional powerhouses England, Scotland, and Wales. Fly-half Vusi Moyo also joins the senior team, leaving a gap that Cheswill Jooste is set to fill after his stint with the Bulls in the United Rugby Championship.
The squad has further been reshuffled due to an unfortunate incident involving Zekhethelo Siyaya, who sustained a facial injury and concussion during a South Africa ‘A’ match against Zimbabwe. Akahluwa Boqwana steps in as Siyaya's replacement. The team also sees the inclusion of Thomas Beling, who will cover for Norton.
"Everyone in the Junior Bok setup is delighted for Riley and Vusi, and we wish them well for the Nations Championship. It is every young player’s dream to represent the Springboks, and they thoroughly deserve their opportunity,"
remarked Foote, highlighting the seamless bridge between the junior and senior national teams.Despite the disruptions, the team's recent 40-0 victory over Zimbabwe in a preparatory match has boosted morale. Foote praised the team's performance, noting,
"They made us proud with their performances. Their involvement in Gqeberha shows that we are on track in preparing the next generation of South African internationals."
In addition to player movements, Yaqeen Ahmed faces a setback with a two-match suspension following a disciplinary review of a dangerous tackle in the same match.
Looking ahead, the Junior Boks are poised to begin their title defense in Tbilisi, where they are drawn in Pool A alongside Wales, host nation Georgia, and Uruguay. Their campaign starts against Uruguay at Avchala Stadium, with subsequent matches against Georgia and Wales. The team is scheduled to depart from Cape Town to Georgia this Monday afternoon.
The resilience and adaptability of the Junior Springboks, guided by Foote's experienced hand, will be crucial as they navigate the challenges of defending their title on foreign soil. As they blend new talents with seasoned campaigners, the tournament promises to be a crucible for the next generation of rugby stars.
Junior Boks’ 2026 World Junior Championship squad:
Props: Oliver Reid, Rambo Kubheka, Jordan Jooste, Danie Kruger, Luan van der Berg. Hookers: Siphosethu Mnebelele (captain), Liam van Wyk. Locks: Heinrich Theron, Jaythen Orange, JD Hattingh. Loose forwards: Kebotile Maake, Risima Khosa, Luke Cannon, Wasi Vyambwera, Gert Kemp. Utility forward: Thomas Beling. Scrumhalves: Hendré Schoeman, Jayden Brits. Flyhalf: Yaqeen Ahmed. Centres: Ethan Adams, Samuel Badenhorst, Markus Muller. Outside and utility backs: Luan Giliomee, Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, Cheswill Jooste, Jack Benade, Jordan Steenkamp, Akahluwa Boqwana, Alzeadon Felix.