Star loosehead prop Ox Nche remains the benchmark No 1 in South Africa and will play an important role for the Boks in 2026.
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The loosehead position is often occupied by the unsung hero in the Springboks’ pack of forwards. While the plaudits mostly go to the anchor in the tighthead jersey, it’s the Boks’ No 1 who plays a crucial role in unsettling the opposition’s No 3.
South Africa have always been blessed with some of the world’s best in this position, and in every Rugby World Cup victory the loosehead has played a massive role. Going forward into 2026 against the likes of England and New Zealand, and ultimately the 2027 tournament in Australia, that will be no different.
The world champions can select from a plethora of strong scrummagers to fill that position. We look at the top performers.
Still in the prime of his scrummaging career, the cake-eating, scrum-destroying loosehead is undoubtedly at the top of the Springboks’ pecking order. \
He was unfortunate not to add to his Test tally at the end of 2025 due to an injury, but since returning to the field, Nché has underlined his importance for the Sharks with some brilliant performances, especially against the Stormers.
The 28-year-old quickly established himself as the back-up to Nché in recent international seasons, and as the first choice No 1 at the Bulls. Steenekamp is receiving strong competition for the jersey from fellow Bulls and Springbok player Jan-Hendrik Wessels, but his uncompromising approach should keep him at the top of the list.
Another powerful scrummaging loosehead who puts his body on the line in defence. He has made the No 1 jersey at the Stormers his own this season and, although there are a couple of players ahead of him in the Bok hierarchy, his rise at the Stormers should keep him in the Springbok conversation over the coming months.
The 23-year-old has worked his way into a regular starting role and hasn’t put a foot wrong at Ellis Park.
He has been strong in the scrums and has held his own against seasoned campaigners in the URC and Challenge Cup. However, his defence, mobility on the attack and slick offloads adds to his all-round game and makes him a good prospect.
While he is set to swap Edinburgh Rugby for the Lions soon, the move will bring him closer to the Bok set-up.
It says a great deal about his ability that he has remained in the national conversation while playing abroad. Venter continues to deliver performances in the URC that should keep him in the Springbok picture for the new international season.