South Africa’s U19 Academy Team Set for International Challenge in France
As the spotlight shines on the Springboks and their historic 100th Test match for Siya Kolisi, another chapter of South African rugby is unfolding on the European stage. The South African Under-19 Academy team is set to make their mark with a crucial international fixture against France in Châteauroux on Saturday afternoon.
This match marks the first of two games during the tour, with the second set for next week against Ireland in Cork. The game will kick off at 3:30 PM South African time, drawing attention from fans and rugby enthusiasts alike.
Key Players and Squad Selection
Riley Norton, the captain of the Junior Springboks, will lead the team in this important encounter. Norton is one of five players from the World Rugby U20 Championship-winning squad who have been selected for the match. Other notable returnees include prop Oliver Reid, hooker Siphosethu Mnebelele, and flyhalf Vusi Moyo. Prop Phiwayinkosi “Rambo” Kubheka will also be part of the squad, coming off the bench.
The selection process involved careful consideration of several factors, as highlighted by Junior Bok head coach Kevin Foote. He emphasized that the 26-player squad was chosen based on three main criteria:
- Performance Tracking:The players were monitored throughout the year in competitions such as the FNB Varsity Cup and the SA Rugby Under-21 and Under-19 provincial competitions.
- Commitment to the Programme:The players’ dedication to the team’s programme and their ability to adapt to the culture and style of play were significant factors.
- Friendly Match Performance:The team’s performance in a friendly match against France on Monday also played a role in the final selections.
Preparation and Cohesion
Despite having only a week to prepare in Stellenbosch before the trip, the team has already shown strong cohesion. Coach Foote noted that the squad has access to a wealth of data on each player, which helps in building effective combinations.
“We are looking forward to Saturday’s occasion, which will see a clash between two teams who are very proud to represent their country,” said Foote. The match is not only an opportunity for the young players to showcase their talent but also a chance to honor the legacy of Siya Kolisi, whose 100th Test match will take place just hours later.
Ticket Sales and Fan Interest
Local organizers have confirmed that over 7,000 tickets have already been sold for the match in Châteauroux. This indicates a high level of interest from fans, who are eager to witness the next generation of South African rugby talent in action.
The SA U19 Academy Team Lineup
Here is the starting lineup for the SA U19 Academy team:
- Akahluwa Boqwana
- Lindsey Jansen
- Khuthadzo Rasivhaga
- Pieter van der Merwe (vice-captain)
- Dylan Miller
- Vusi Moyo
- Elgernon Meyer
- Reuben Kruger
- Aiden de Costa
- Kebotile Maake
- Riley Norton (captain)
- Heinrich Theron
- Danie Kruger
- Siphosethu Mnebelele
- Oliver Reid
Replacements (16-26):
- Liam van Wyk
- Phiwayinkosi “Rambo” Kubheka
- Ulrich van der Merwe
- JD Hattingh
- Tom Barnard
- Vuyo Gwiji
- Luan Giliomee
- Janco Purchase
- Risima Khosa
- Brooklyn Newman
- Unathi Mlotshwa