Fresh faces shine in Springbok resurgence

Leighton Koopman|Published 6 months ago

At the beginning of the year, Ruan Nortje, right, was arguably not even close to the Bok setup but after this weekend, can call himself a Rugby Championship winner alongside such stalwarts as Jasper Wiese and Malcolm Marx. | BackpagePix

Thirty-five of these athletes were integral to the team's triumphant Rugby Championship performance, marking their first tournament win since 2019.

While seasoned veterans have undoubtedly steered the Springbok ship, it is the newcomers who have captured the imagination of fans and selectors alike. Here, Leighton Koopman delves into the exploits of five bright young stars who seized their Springbok opportunities and are poised to be key players in the lead up to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Ruan Nortje (lock)

Among the season’s most notable finds, Nortje emerged from the shadows to solidify his place in the squad. Initially the fifth-choice No 5 lock, Nortje capitalised on the injuries to stalwarts Lood de Jager, Franco Mostert, and RG Snyman.

While his entry wasn’t without hiccups, Nortje demonstrated commanding control over line-outs and rolling mauls. Despite not being the most physically imposing player, he made his presence felt with tenacious tackling and rucking, driving the Boks forward with relentless determination.

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (utility back)

Despite a knee injury casting a shadow on his rising career and potentially sidelining him for the November Tests, Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s international debut was nothing short of spectacular. Thrust into action against Ireland, the 22-year-old showcased his attacking prowess both as fullback and flyhalf. His ability to adapt and excel in both positions underscores his value to the Springbok setup, making him a versatile asset for future campaigns.

Morne van den Berg (scrumhalf)

In a team brimming with scrumhalf talent, Van den Berg’s emergence has been a revelation. With Faf de Klerk injured, Van den Berg stepped up against Portugal and Australia, maintaining an undefeated record in his nascent international career. His style of play mirrors that of De Klerk, and with more Test experience, Van den Berg has the potential to be a seamless successor to the double World Cup-winning scrumhalf.

Ben-Jason Dixon (loose forward)

The industrious Dixon has had an impressive entry into the fiercely competitive Springbok pack. Though his youth showed through with some mistakes, Dixon’s tenacity on and off the ball evokes comparisons to Pieter-Steph du Toit, another double world champion.

His relentless effort and learnings from the gruelling Tests against teams like the All Blacks suggest a bright future and continued relevance in the Springbok roster for the foreseeable future.

Gerhard Steenekamp (prop)

When Steven Kitshoff fell to injury, Steenekamp answered the call admirably. Supporting Ox Nche, Steenekamp ensured the Springbok scrum remained dominant against all opponents.

His performances behind Nche have positioned him as a reliable backup, ready to step in for the Tests against Scotland, England, and Wales if needed. Coupled with formidable ball-carrying skills, Steenekamp has firmly established himself as a vital component of the Springbok forward pack.

As the Springboks continue to evolve under Erasmus' watch, these young players not only represent the future of South African rugby but also highlight the depth of talent at the nation’s disposal. With an eye on the 2027 Rugby World Cup, these newcomers are set to inspire and propel the Springboks to new heights.