The Springboks are gearing up for their new season, starting with a warm-up clash against the Barbarians on June 28, before diving into July’s Tests against Italy and Georgia. But injury clouds are already casting a shadow over their preparations.
Elrigh Louw is sidelined, and Jasper Wiese has missed most of the domestic season, raising serious questions about the depth at the crucial No. 8 position. Young Bulls sensation Cameron Hanekom seemed poised to step up and stake his claim this season — but his recent injury in the URC semi-final against the Sharks has thrown a wrench into those plans.
Hanekom, just 21, left the field clutching his hamstring and is set to miss the URC final. The injury looks serious enough to sideline him for a long spell, much to the dismay of Bulls coach Jake White, who understands the pressure on such a young talent.
White reminded everyone that 21-year-olds rarely even made Bulls training squads in the past, let alone shone so brightly. “He’s jumped the line because of his talent,” White said, adding that while Hanekom is down now, he has a promising rugby future ahead.
If Hanekom is ruled out of Springbok duty, Jasper Wiese will have to carry the load at No. 8 — but that could open the door for new contenders like Juarno Augustus.
Springboks squad highlights:
Forwards include big names like Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi, Jasper Wiese, and young talents such as Hanekom and Augustus. The backs boast stars like Lukhanyo Am, Damian Willemse, and Cheslin Kolbe.
Springboks’ upcoming fixtures:
- June 28: Barbarians (Cape Town)
- July 5 & 12: Italy (Pretoria & Gqeberha)
- July 19: Georgia (Nelspruit)
- August 16 & 23: Australia (Johannesburg & Cape Town)
- September & November: Key clashes against New Zealand, Argentina, France, Ireland, and Wales, including Tests in both South Africa and abroad.
With a packed schedule ahead, the Springboks will need to manage their squad carefully. Will Hanekom recover in time to make an impact? Or will the pressure fall squarely on the shoulders of the more experienced campaigners? Rugby fans will be watching closely.
