Springboks legend Victor Matfield has pinpointed JJ van der Mescht as a potential standout for South Africa's national rugby team, following his stellar season with Northampton Saints. The formidable lock, weighing in just shy of 23 stones, has turned heads with his dynamic performance after transferring from Stade Francais in 2025. Now, his recent inclusion in the Springboks alignment camp by coach Rassie Erasmus suggests big things are expected from him in the upcoming Nations Championship.
Van der Mescht's journey has been one of immense growth and adaptation. After a challenging stint in Paris where he struggled to leave a significant mark despite ample game time, his move to the Premiership has evidently reignited his career. At 27 years old, the 145kg lock has not only improved his physical game but has also refined his skills, making him a formidable presence on the field.
"JJ van der Mescht from Northampton, 145kgs, has got a call-up. He's big but he's fast, he's got great skills," Matfield remarked on the Rivals podcast.
Despite the competition, Matfield believes van der Mescht could be a crucial player for the Springboks, especially with RG Snyman sidelined for the season. "He won’t be used a lot in the lineout, he will be the guy running it up in the midfield and he's got great skills – off-loading and getting through those tackles," Matfield added, highlighting van der Mescht’s unique attributes that could prove invaluable on the international stage.
Another player receiving praise from Matfield is Embrose Papier, whose consistent performance for the Bulls has finally earned him a spot in the alignment camp, correcting what many felt was a prolonged oversight. Matfield expressed his satisfaction with Papier's inclusion, emphasizing the dynamism he brings to the game.
"The one guy I am really happy to see there is Embrose Papier, he’s been playing really well for the Bulls," said Matfield.
While the camp signaled the phasing out of some veteran players, such as Willie le Roux, Matfield noted that this might not signify the end of their international careers. He trusts Erasmus's judgment in blending experienced heads with fresh talent, ensuring the team remains competitive and cohesive.
The alignment camp, part of Erasmus's strategic planning, not only prepares the team for immediate challenges but also sets the groundwork for nurturing upcoming talent, proving once again why strategic foresight in rugby management is as crucial as the grit displayed on the field.
349 posts
Springboks legend Victor Matfield has pinpointed JJ van der Mescht as a potential standout for South Africa's national rugby team, following his stellar season with Northampton Saints. The formidable lock, weighing in just shy of 23 stones, has turned heads with his dynamic performance after transferring from Stade Francais in 2025. Now, his recent inclusion in the Springboks alignment camp by coach Rassie Erasmus suggests big things are expected from him in the upcoming Nations Championship.
Van der Mescht's journey has been one of immense growth and adaptation. After a challenging stint in Paris where he struggled to leave a significant mark despite ample game time, his move to the Premiership has evidently reignited his career. At 27 years old, the 145kg lock has not only improved his physical game but has also refined his skills, making him a formidable presence on the field.
"JJ van der Mescht from Northampton, 145kgs, has got a call-up. He's big but he's fast, he's got great skills," Matfield remarked on the Rivals podcast.
Despite the competition, Matfield believes van der Mescht could be a crucial player for the Springboks, especially with RG Snyman sidelined for the season. "He won’t be used a lot in the lineout, he will be the guy running it up in the midfield and he's got great skills – off-loading and getting through those tackles," Matfield added, highlighting van der Mescht’s unique attributes that could prove invaluable on the international stage.
Another player receiving praise from Matfield is Embrose Papier, whose consistent performance for the Bulls has finally earned him a spot in the alignment camp, correcting what many felt was a prolonged oversight. Matfield expressed his satisfaction with Papier's inclusion, emphasizing the dynamism he brings to the game.
"The one guy I am really happy to see there is Embrose Papier, he’s been playing really well for the Bulls," said Matfield.
While the camp signaled the phasing out of some veteran players, such as Willie le Roux, Matfield noted that this might not signify the end of their international careers. He trusts Erasmus's judgment in blending experienced heads with fresh talent, ensuring the team remains competitive and cohesive.
The alignment camp, part of Erasmus's strategic planning, not only prepares the team for immediate challenges but also sets the groundwork for nurturing upcoming talent, proving once again why strategic foresight in rugby management is as crucial as the grit displayed on the field.