The Blitzboks are back to full force with the return of Dewald Human and Gino Cupido, just in time for the climactic showdowns of the SVNS World Championship in Valladolid and Bordeaux. After sitting out the triumphant Hong Kong tournament due to injuries, this duo's comeback could not be more timely.
Blitzboks coach Philip Snyman is facing the pleasant dilemma of an overflowing talent pool, albeit with Christie Grobbelaar, Nabo Sokoyi, and Zander Reynders sidelined. “It is great to be able to select from a big squad for our final two tournaments, as we only have Christie Grobbelaar [calf], Nabo Sokoyi [shoulder] and Zander Reynders [shoulder] out of contention,” Snyman remarked. The strategic shifts are evident, with Human stepping up as an additional flyhalf and Cupido taking over the centre position from Donavan Don, aiming to inject more height and a fresh tactical approach to the midfield.
"I had some tough decisions to make but opted for Dewald as an extra flyhalf option given the back-to-back tournaments, while Gino replaces Donavan Don at centre, where we are looking for a bit more height in the midfield and a slight change in approach in that position."
Snyman also lauded his medical team for their exceptional work in getting players match-ready, highlighting the depth and readiness of his squad.
Adding to the Blitzboks' narrative is the potential milestone for Human and Shilton van Wyk, who are on the verge of marking their 35th tournament appearance by the time they hit Bordeaux. “That is a benchmark in our team, so it will be a special moment for both, something that will be shared by all, as well as those who did not make the squad,” Snyman shared. Acknowledgment was also given to the diligent players who will not make the trip but have contributed significantly behind the scenes.
The team is geared up to tackle Great Britain, Kenya, and Australia in Pool A at Estadio Jose Zorrilla. With a squad featuring stalwarts like Ryan Oosthuizen, Impi Visser, and Siviwe Soyizwapi alongside the returning Human and Cupido, the Blitzboks are a formidable force.
Blitzboks squad: Ryan Oosthuizen, Impi Visser (c), Zain Davids, Ronald Brown, Selvyn Davids, Dewald Human, Siviwe Soyizwapi, Shilton van Wyk, Quewin Nortje, Sebastiaan Jobb, David Brits, Tristan Leyds, Jayden Nell, Gino Cupido.
Blitzboks’ Valladolid pool fixtures (SA times):
Friday, 29 May
12:34pm: vs Great Britain
5:08pm: vs Kenya
Saturday, 30 May
1:23pm: vs Australia