Boks Name Six Uncapped Players in Nations Championship Squad 

As Springbok season officially begins, Rassie Erasmus names the 46-man squad ahead of the inaugural Nations Championship, which kicks off against England on 4 July.  

The squad includes six uncapped players and a host of returning Vodacom Bulls players. The expanded squad is made up of 28 forwards and 18 backline players, with Paul de Villiers, Riley Norton, Ruben van Heerden, Carlu Sadie, Visi Moyo, and Jaco Williams being uncapped.  

This mix of capped and uncapped players is sure to make the Nations Championship an exciting tournament to watch.  

Riley Norton Headlines New Faces 

Among the uncapped, standout players is Junior Springbok captain Riley Norton. After his try on Saturday against the Barbarians, Norton was a-shooing for a place on the squad.  

Norton, only 20 years old, impressed the Boks and is now set for a Test debut in the Nations Championship. Joining him are uncapped prop Carlu Sadie, lock Ruben van Heerden, flanker Paul de Villiers, flyhalf Vusi Moyo, and winger Jaco Williams. 

“We are pleased with the quality of the group we have selected, and it’s also exciting to see the next generation of players coming through in Riley, Vusi, Carlu, Ruben, and Jaco,” said Erasmus.  

“They all proved against the Barbarians and SA ‘A’ teams that they have what it takes to play at the highest level, and as coaches, we are fortunate that we’ve had the opportunity to work with them, in the last two weeks. 

“They are all familiar with the way the Springbok environment operates, the standards expected at this level, and they have shown that they are comfortable in the setup, so we are excited for them to make this setup.”  

Papier and Jantjies Return to the Fold 

The squad also sees the return of Embrose Papier and Herschel Jantjies.  

Erasmus explained their return by saying that: “Embrose and Herschel have also made strong statements with their performances this season, and we are looking forward to welcoming them back to the squad.” 

Papier receives his first Springbok call-up since 2018 after an exceptional season with the Vodacom Bulls. He was recognised as the United Rugby Championship Player of the Season.  

Jantjies also makes a welcome return after last representing the Boks back in 2023. He has been on top form playing for the French Bayonne team.  

Bulls Addition Strengthens the Squad 

Following their loss against Leinster on Friday in the URC Grand Final, the Bulls players are ready to return home. 12 players have been added to the Springbok squad ahead of the Nations Championship.  

So, even after their loss, Erasmus has confidence in the Bulls players. He said: “All the players with the exception of Embrose have been in our system in the last few seasons, so they know our structures well and will have next week to get back into the swing of things, before we begin our proper test-week preparations.”  

Among the returning Bulls players are Handre Pollard, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Canan Moodie, Cameron Hanekom, Ruan Nortje, and Wilco Louw.  

Nations Championship Fixtures  

South Africa’s Nations Championship schedule includes: 

• England – Ellis Park, Johannesburg (4 July) 

• Scotland – Loftus, Pretoria (11 July) 

• Wales – Kings Park, Duban (18 July) 

• Argentina – Buenos Aires (8 August) 

The Springboks have travelled to Johannesburg to resume practice ahead of their clash against England. Expectations are high as Erasmus looks to build momentum. 

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With a blend of experienced players and uncapped talent, the Springboks enter the inaugural Nations Championship on a high. This tournament offers established stars to reaffirm their place on the squad while giving the chance for uncapped players to make their mark.  

All eyes will be on the world champions as they take on England at Ellis Park on 4 July. Will the Springboks win, or can England spoil their streak? Be sure to follow all the action and bet on rugby now with bet.co.za.