Saffas that could boost the England squad
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: With the Southern Hemisphere solely focused on the Rugby Championship, it is a perfect time for the North to preview and review their teams before the Nations Series later this year.
It will be a very challenging series for England as they will take on New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa in November.
The current Rugby Championship will give England head coach Steve Borthwick valuable insight into the different teams’ philosophy.
However, he also has ample time to boost his set-up.
And it seems like the boss might be looking at a few South African stars to help him lift the Red Roses.
According to media reports, Borthwick has his eye on four South African players, who will soon qualify for England on residency.
#OPINION: New Zealand-based RugbyPass scribe Ben Smith points out the @Springboks‘ weaknesses ahead of their two matches against the @AllBlacks in the #RugbyChampionship. 👇https://t.co/WbXRfy6M4T
— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) August 20, 2024
Tyrone Green is regarded as one the best backline players in the Premiership and has become a fan favourite.
The 26-year-old Harlequins ace can cover just about every position in the backline.
Green, a product of Jeppe High School, joined Harlequins in 2020 from the Lions.
He has become an integral part of the Harlequins set-up and helped the club secure their second Premiership title.
He signed a long-term contract with the club.
However, England will have to wait as he won’t be eligible until June 2025 due to residency regulations.
One might see him gain international experience with the British and Irish Lions for their trip to Australia next year.
#SquadAnnouncement: Wallabies bring in uncapped trio for tour 👇#RugbyChampionship #Argentina #LosPumas #Australia #Wallabies #ARGvAUS https://t.co/Z1YLDSr6OF
— rugby365.com (@rugby365com) August 20, 2024
Jacques Vermeulen is a formidable forward who joined Exeter Chiefs in 2019 from the Sharks.
The forward, who can play lock and back row, has proven to be an incredible figure for the Premiership side.
The former South Africa Under-20 international will qualify for England soon.
Vermeulen’s mobility and breakdown skills will be vital for Borthwick.
And while he faces fierce competition for places, it is fairly easy to imagine the industrious, Paarl-born flank thriving in a Test match.
South African loose forward Hanro Liebenberg arrived at Leicester Tiger from Bulls in 2019.
The flank has been in fine form for the Leicester Tigers and has been voted the club’s Player of the Year.
The 28-year-old was also part of the Tigers’ winning Premiership side in 2022 and will be another amazing feat for Borthwick.
Heading to the Premiership from Cheetahs back in 2021, Benhard Janse van Rensburg has been making loads of strides in England.
He joined London Irish and has made more than 50 appearances for the Exiles over two seasons, scoring 11 Premiership tries before he found his place at Bristol Bears in 2023.
The 27-year-old centre also covers flyhalf.
