The U18 A squad is set to open the day with a match against France at 11:30 am. This game follows their impressive 20-0 win over Georgia, which demonstrated a solid team performance. The coaches have opted to keep a mix of continuity and fresh legs in the lineup, with a few strategic rotational changes ensuring that key positions remain strong.
Following this, the main SA U18 team will face England at 3:30 pm. Coming off a dominant 51-15 victory over Ireland, the team is confident yet focused. Four pivotal players are making their third consecutive start. Their commitment is paramount for the team's strategy to maintain its undefeated streak.
"We've built great momentum, and the boys are responding well to the challenges. It's crucial we keep our focus and finish strong," remarked Jacobus de Villiers, the team captain and Number 8.
A particularly special moment awaits lock Juvan Burden and flyhalf Ethan van Biljon, as they will be playing on their home ground at Stellenberg High School, adding an extra layer of motivation for these young athletes.
The teams for SA U18 and SA U18 A are stacked with talent, poised to make their mark in this final round. The lineups are as follows:
SA U18 Starting XV:
- Clement Makelele
- Charles Whitehead
- Nicolas Salamousas
- Juvan Burden
- Jean Dreyer
- Stefan van der Vyver
- Jamie Wimble
- Jacobus de Villiers (c)
- Mickyle Booise
- Ethan van Biljon
- Ncutu Kepe
- Alex Jankowitz
- Erin Nelson
- Anesu Kuzonyei
- Lamla Mgedezi
Substitutes:
- Theo Boshoff
- Aphelele Chamane
- Ruben Lombard
- Glodi Tshipamba
- Siphesihle Marule
- Werner de Bruin
- Luke Doyle
- Achmat Behardien
SA U18 A Starting XV:
- Max Malan
- Charl Els
- Priden Sibiya
- Bernhardt Schulze
- Martin van Niekerk (c)
- Zander Muller
- AD Faul
- Niel du Randt
- Liam de Villiers
- Jaydon Viljoen
- Riyanas Mkhabela
- Amogelang Mataboge
- Nathan Aneke (vc)
- Lucritia Magau
- Drewyn Baron
Substitutes:
- Kwaza Gobingca
- Matthew Prins
- Sebastiaan Bekker
- Bulelani Cebani
- Linakho Mehlomakulu
- Rufagon Hendricks
- Travis Pheiffer
- Albert Nel
As the teams prepare for the final showdown, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Both teams are not just playing for victory but also for pride, as they represent their schools and provinces on this significant platform.
All eyes will be on Stellenberg High School this Saturday as these young athletes look to make their mark and possibly sweep the series. It promises to be a day of intense rugby action and a showcase of the bright future of South African rugby.
