In preparation for the crucial Junior World Championship semi-final in Tbilisi, Kevin Foote, coach of the Junior Springboks, has announced significant changes to his team lineup against England. The adjustments include both pack and backline shifts for the game on Monday, with the team eyeing a final berth following their last victory over Wales in Pool A.
Changes in the forward positions see Kebotile Maake stepping in as openside flanker, Luke Cannon covering the blindside, and Gert Kemp filling the No. 8 role. Risima Khosa and Vujo Gwiji have been rotated, with Khosa now serving as one of the six forward substitutes. The backline sees the return of Markus Muller at outside centre, replacing Samuel Badenhorst, and Luan Giliomee, who has passed his head injury assessment, reclaims his position at fullback. Alzeadon Felix will provide backline cover from the bench.
"We've made some rotational changes to the squad, mindful that we had an extra day for recovery, which came at the right time after three pool matches in a relatively short period,"
Foote expressed his strategy for the lineup, emphasizing the team's readiness and the tactical approach tailored to counter a formidable English squad. "We have selected what we believe is an exciting team and a combination best suited to our game model against a very good England side," he stated.
England, like the Junior Boks, advanced to the semi-finals unbeaten, showcasing strength and consistency throughout the tournament. Foote acknowledged the caliber of the opposition, noting, "England have shown their quality by winning all three of their pool games. They have a strong and successful history in this competition and will be highly motivated for this match. We have prepared well, and now it’s about executing our plan."
"These young men love representing this team and playing for South Africa. We are grateful to represent our country and are excited about the challenge that awaits us on Monday."
The Junior Springboks' team for the upcoming match includes: Luan Giliomee (15), Cheswill Jooste (14), Markus Muller (13), Ethan Adams (12), Khuthadzo Rasivhaga (11), Yaqeen Ahmed (10), Hendré Schoeman (9), Gert Kemp (8), Luke Cannon (7), Kebotile Maake (6), JD Hattingh (5), Heinrich Theron (4), Danie Kruger (3), Siphosethu Mnebelele (c) (2), and Oliver Reid (1). The bench will feature Liam van Wyk (16), Rambo Kubheka (17), Luan van der Berg (18), Jaythen Orange (19), Thomas Beling (20), Risima Khosa (21), Jayden Brits (22), and Alzeadon Felix (23).