SA Under-19 Academy squad ready for thrilling European tour

South Africa’s next generation of rugby talent is set to make waves in Europe, as the SA Rugby Under-19 Academy squad embarks on an exciting three-match tour to France and Ireland.

The 30-man squad features five standout performers from this year’s Junior Springbok team, including captain Riley Norton, Oliver Reid, Phiwayinkosi “Rambo” Kubheka, Siphosethu Mnebelele, and Vusi Moyo. These players bring invaluable experience from the World Rugby Under-20 Championship, providing leadership and continuity for the touring side.

The tour forms a key part of SA Rugby’s Elite Player Development programme, offering a crucial pathway for age-group players aspiring to Junior Springbok honours. The squad will face stiff international competition, starting with an opposed training session against a French Under-19 Invitational XV on November 3. This is followed by matches against the French Under-19s on November 8 and the Irish Under-19s on November 14.

Speaking after a week-long training camp in Stellenbosch, Junior Springbok head coach Kevin Foote expressed his satisfaction with the squad’s preparation. “It was an awesome camp and a great opportunity to immerse the guys in our culture, what it means to play for the Junior Springboks, how we want to play, and how we want to represent ourselves,” he said.

Foote emphasised the continuity within the group, highlighting the impact of returning Under-20 players in integrating new talent. “We also have another 10 players who were part of our Junior Springbok camp preparations throughout the year, so there is a lot of continuity,” he added.

The squad will be supported by the full Junior Springbok coaching and management staff, including Thulani Nteta (strength and conditioning), Melusi Mthethwa (attack coach), and Lumumba Currie (forwards coach). “From a coaching perspective, we are a year down the line as a team, which is a big plus. There is great synergy amongst the whole management staff, which set the trend nicely for the camp,” Foote noted.

The final 30-man squad was adjusted following injuries to lock James Schnetler (Fidelity ADT Lions) and centre Samuel Badenhorst (DHL Western Province), with Thomas Beling (Fidelity ADT Lions) stepping in as cover during camp. While four players missed out on the final squad, Foote reassured them of their continued place in SA Rugby’s plans.

“Our goals are clarity, confidence, and connection,” said Foote. “We want players to understand our playing style, execute it with confidence, and build a bond that sets the tone for next year. For now, the focus is on Europe, knowing that France and Ireland will be a challenge in their backyard early in the season.”

The squad departs for France on Wednesday and returns to South Africa on 16 November.

SA Under-19 Academy Touring Squad:

Props: Oliver Reid, Phiwayinkosi Kubheka, Aphiwe Shelembe, Ulrich van der Merwe, Danie Kruger Hookers: Siphosethu Mnebelele, Mahle Sithole, Liam van Wyk

Locks: Heinrich Theron, Riley Norton, JD Hattingh, Tom Barnard

Loose forwards: Kebotile Maake, Vuyo Gwiji, Risima Khosa, Aiden de Costa, Reuben Kruger

Scrumhalves: Brooklyn Newman, Elgernon Meyer

Flyhalves: Vusi Moyo, Luan Giliomee

Centres: Pieter van der Merwe, Janco Purchase, Gregan Jansen, Adriano Jackson

Outside backs: Dylan Miller, Unathi Mlotshwa, Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, Lindsey Jansen, Akahluwa Boqwana

The stage is set for a thrilling showcase of South Africa’s emerging rugby stars.