Rugby Union News: Springboks to Face Wales at Twickenham on June 22
The South African Springboks will take on the Wales national team in a one-off Test match at Twickenham on June 22. With the game falling outside the international window, the availability of players based in England, France, and Ireland, as well as top local franchises like the Bulls and Stormers, is uncertain.
Despite the personnel challenges, the world champion Springboks will look to field a competitive squad, with veteran forwards Bongi Mbonambi and Eben Etzebeth expected to form part of the leadership group. Mbonambi may wear the captain’s armband until regular skipper Siya Kolisi completes his club commitments with Racing 92 in France.
The fly-half position, however, poses a significant selection headache for head coach Rassie Erasmus. Handré Pollard, the Springboks’ first-choice 10 at the past three World Cups, may not be available due to club commitments. Damian Willemse and Manie Libbok have deputized in Pollard’s absence, but their participation will depend on the Stormers’ progress in the United Rugby Championship (URC) play-offs.
“Emerging talents like Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Siya Masuku have impressed in domestic competitions and could be in contention for a Test debut against Wales. Masuku’s match-winning display in the Sharks’ Challenge Cup semi-final victory over Clermont has further bolstered his case for selection.”
Erasmus will view the June Test as an opportunity to blood new talent and experiment with alternate combinations, as the Springboks embark on a four-year cycle leading up to the 2027 World Cup. However, the world champions will be expected to prevail against the Six Nations wooden-spoon holders at a neutral venue, adding a layer of pressure to the team’s performance.
Despite the personnel challenges, the Springboks will be determined to start the 2024 Test season on a positive note, with the fly-half selection proving crucial to their success against Wales at Twickenham.
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