Despite showing promising signs of recovery and brilliance on the field, Juarno Augustus, affectionately dubbed 'Trokkie,' finds himself sidelined from the Springbok's upcoming virtual alignment camp. This exclusion raises eyebrows, particularly given his impactful performances post-injury.
Augustus' journey has been anything but smooth, with injuries throwing continuous hurdles in his path. The latest, a torn ankle ligament in December, benched him for three months, disrupting his momentum right when he was beginning to shine for Ulster in both the Vodacom URC and EPCR Challenge Cup. Prior to this setback, he had been making a strong case for inclusion, having been part of Rassie Erasmus' plans in the previous season and even making a significant mark in the 2024-25 season with Northampton, where he amassed over 1,000 minutes on the pitch and helped the team reach the Investec Champions Cup final.
Despite his setbacks, Augustus has bounced back with vigor. Since his return, he has started seven of nine matches for Ulster, proving his resilience and capability. His performance against Edinburgh was particularly notable, earning him Man of the Match and demonstrating that he hasn't lost his touch during his layoff.
"Trokkie shines for impressive Ulster"
Yet, the depth at the No 8 position within the Springbok squad is formidable, and Erasmus has a wealth of options including Jasper Wiese, Kwagga Smith, Cameron Hanekom, and Evan Roos. This embarrassment of riches leaves Augustus as the odd man out, despite his proven track record and recent form.
However, all hope is not lost for Augustus. Erasmus has a history of recalling players who were not part of initial camps, suggesting that the door remains ajar for 'Trokkie' to claw his way back to international duties. His current trajectory, if maintained, could very well see him back in the green and gold, especially if he continues to dominate on the field as he has in recent matches.
Players invited to the first virtual Springbok alignment camp: Forwards: Pieter-Steph du Toit, Lood de Jager, Jean-Luc du Preez, Thomas du Toit, Jean Kleyn, Malcolm Marx, Franco Mostert, Carlü Sadie, Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman, Boan Venter, JJ van der Mescht, Marnus van der Merwe, Jasper Wiese. Backs: Damian de Allende, Lukhanyo Am, Faf de Klerk, Herschel Jantjies, Jesse Kriel, Cheslin Kolbe, Manie Libbok.
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Despite showing promising signs of recovery and brilliance on the field, Juarno Augustus, affectionately dubbed 'Trokkie,' finds himself sidelined from the Springbok's upcoming virtual alignment camp. This exclusion raises eyebrows, particularly given his impactful performances post-injury.
Augustus' journey has been anything but smooth, with injuries throwing continuous hurdles in his path. The latest, a torn ankle ligament in December, benched him for three months, disrupting his momentum right when he was beginning to shine for Ulster in both the Vodacom URC and EPCR Challenge Cup. Prior to this setback, he had been making a strong case for inclusion, having been part of Rassie Erasmus' plans in the previous season and even making a significant mark in the 2024-25 season with Northampton, where he amassed over 1,000 minutes on the pitch and helped the team reach the Investec Champions Cup final.
Despite his setbacks, Augustus has bounced back with vigor. Since his return, he has started seven of nine matches for Ulster, proving his resilience and capability. His performance against Edinburgh was particularly notable, earning him Man of the Match and demonstrating that he hasn't lost his touch during his layoff.
"Trokkie shines for impressive Ulster"
Yet, the depth at the No 8 position within the Springbok squad is formidable, and Erasmus has a wealth of options including Jasper Wiese, Kwagga Smith, Cameron Hanekom, and Evan Roos. This embarrassment of riches leaves Augustus as the odd man out, despite his proven track record and recent form.
However, all hope is not lost for Augustus. Erasmus has a history of recalling players who were not part of initial camps, suggesting that the door remains ajar for 'Trokkie' to claw his way back to international duties. His current trajectory, if maintained, could very well see him back in the green and gold, especially if he continues to dominate on the field as he has in recent matches.
Players invited to the first virtual Springbok alignment camp: Forwards: Pieter-Steph du Toit, Lood de Jager, Jean-Luc du Preez, Thomas du Toit, Jean Kleyn, Malcolm Marx, Franco Mostert, Carlü Sadie, Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman, Boan Venter, JJ van der Mescht, Marnus van der Merwe, Jasper Wiese. Backs: Damian de Allende, Lukhanyo Am, Faf de Klerk, Herschel Jantjies, Jesse Kriel, Cheslin Kolbe, Manie Libbok.