In a strategic nod to consistency, Junior Boks coach Kevin Foote has made a solitary tweak to his squad for the upcoming U20 Rugby Championship grand finale against New Zealand, set to take place this Saturday in Gqeberha. With the stakes sky-high, only loose forward Risima Khosa is new on the bench, stepping in for Gert Kemp. The team is riding high on momentum after a convincing win over Australia, and now, a mere point away from clinching the title, the atmosphere is electric.
The Junior Boks are well aware of the gravity of this match-up at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. Although the Kiwis stumbled against Argentina recently, Foote is taking nothing for granted.
"For us in rugby, it doesn’t get better than South Africa versus New Zealand,"
he declared, emphasizing the privilege of hosting such a critical game in front of a home crowd. This clash isn’t just about lifting the trophy; it’s about marking a significant milestone in the team's evolution.
Preparations have been seamless, with the team gelling together under the pressures of expectation and excitement. Foote praised his squad’s unity and the positive environment fostered by the staff, crucial in the lead-up to such a pivotal game. Gqeberha has proved to be a splendid host, and the Junior Boks aim to reciprocate the warm reception with a performance to remember against their arch-rivals.
The encounter promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams hungry to end their campaigns on a high.
"These two teams have a history of producing memorable encounters when they meet, and it’s every South African rugby player’s dream to stand facing the haka and take on New Zealand,"
Foote added. The stage is set for a clash that could be etched in the annals of rugby history.
Junior Boks Line-Up: Akahluwa Boqwana, Jack Benade, Samuel Badenhorst, Ethan Adams, Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, Yaqeen Ahmed, Hendré Schoeman, Kebotile Maake, Wasi Vyambwera, Luke Canon, Riley Norton (c), Heinrich Theron, Danie Kruger, Liam van Wyk, Rambo Kubheka. Bench: Mahle Sithole, Oliver Reid, Luan van der Berg, JD Hattingh, Risima Khosa, Jayden Brits, Vusi Moyo, Jade Muller.
2,100 posts
In a strategic nod to consistency, Junior Boks coach Kevin Foote has made a solitary tweak to his squad for the upcoming U20 Rugby Championship grand finale against New Zealand, set to take place this Saturday in Gqeberha. With the stakes sky-high, only loose forward Risima Khosa is new on the bench, stepping in for Gert Kemp. The team is riding high on momentum after a convincing win over Australia, and now, a mere point away from clinching the title, the atmosphere is electric.
The Junior Boks are well aware of the gravity of this match-up at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium. Although the Kiwis stumbled against Argentina recently, Foote is taking nothing for granted.
"For us in rugby, it doesn’t get better than South Africa versus New Zealand,"
he declared, emphasizing the privilege of hosting such a critical game in front of a home crowd. This clash isn’t just about lifting the trophy; it’s about marking a significant milestone in the team's evolution.Preparations have been seamless, with the team gelling together under the pressures of expectation and excitement. Foote praised his squad’s unity and the positive environment fostered by the staff, crucial in the lead-up to such a pivotal game. Gqeberha has proved to be a splendid host, and the Junior Boks aim to reciprocate the warm reception with a performance to remember against their arch-rivals.
The encounter promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with both teams hungry to end their campaigns on a high.
"These two teams have a history of producing memorable encounters when they meet, and it’s every South African rugby player’s dream to stand facing the haka and take on New Zealand,"
Foote added. The stage is set for a clash that could be etched in the annals of rugby history.Junior Boks Line-Up: Akahluwa Boqwana, Jack Benade, Samuel Badenhorst, Ethan Adams, Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, Yaqeen Ahmed, Hendré Schoeman, Kebotile Maake, Wasi Vyambwera, Luke Canon, Riley Norton (c), Heinrich Theron, Danie Kruger, Liam van Wyk, Rambo Kubheka. Bench: Mahle Sithole, Oliver Reid, Luan van der Berg, JD Hattingh, Risima Khosa, Jayden Brits, Vusi Moyo, Jade Muller.