As the South Africa 'A' rugby team gears up to end their four-year hiatus with a match against the Zimbabwe Sables at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, it's a perfect moment to catch up with the players who donned the green and gold back in 2022. Under the guidance of Mzwandile Stick, these athletes showcased their prowess against formidable teams like Munster and Bristol Bears. Despite the defeats, Rassie Erasmus, the Springboks' director of rugby, has consistently emphasized the value of these matches in nurturing talent within the national team's structures.
Gianni Lombard, once a starter for the Lions and now transitioning to the Sharks, reflects on his journey, noting, "Every game in that jersey is a step towards fulfilling my Springbok dreams." Meanwhile, Suleiman Hartzenberg, another young talent, has rapidly ascended within the Stormers, already notching up 50 caps before his 22nd birthday. Henco van Wyk, despite injury setbacks, remains a key figure for the Lions and a potential candidate for future Springbok selection, with Erasmus mentioning, "Henco's resilience and skill are undeniable, he's on our radar for the upcoming international window."
"The privilege and honour to coach a player like Cornal Hendricks was immense,"
remarked Jake White, paying tribute to Hendricks who passed away in 2025 following a heart attack. Hendricks' remarkable comeback to professional rugby after being diagnosed with a heart condition in 2015 remains an inspiring story of determination and passion.Leolin Zas continues to dazzle on the wing for the Stormers, and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, after a stunning debut season, looks to overcome an injury to rejoin the Springboks for the highly anticipated series against the All Blacks. His record-breaking performance against Argentina in 2025, where he scored 37 points, has already made him a key player to watch.
Grant Williams, part of the 2023 World Cup-winning squad, has become a vital part of the Springboks' setup, his agility and pace adding depth to the team's dynamic. Jean-Luc du Preez, despite his challenges with injuries, continues to demonstrate his prowess, recently signing with Union Bordeaux-Begles.
Emerging from injuries, Elrigh Louw and Marco van Staden have both fought hard to return to their respective teams, showing the resilience that defines rugby's spirit. Ruan Nortje, after stepping up during a lock crisis, has solidified his place in the Springboks, contributing significantly in both national and club levels.
As these players continue their careers, both in South Africa and abroad, their journeys reflect not just their individual ambitions but also the broader narrative of rugby's challenging yet rewarding nature. Whether battling through injuries, scoring record-breaking tries, or transitioning between teams, each player carries forward the legacy of the green and gold with pride and determination.