Band of brothers back together for the first time since 2019 RWC
VIDEO: For the first time since the 2019 World Cup in Japan, the Springboks’ band of four locks are back together again.
All four – Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Franco Mostert, and RG Snyman – have been included in Rassie Erasmus’ squad for this season’s matches.
De Jager and Etzebeth are likely to feature together for the first time in two years when the Springboks’ international season kicks off.
This week, both Etzebeth and Bok captain Siya Kolisi expressed their excitement at having their former teammate De Jager back in the Bok mix.
On November 2, 2019, the Springboks completed their remarkable journey to the top of the international game, beating England 32-12 in the World Cup final in Yokohama, Japan.
It was the third time that South Africa had been crowned world champions after their victorious campaigns in 1995 and 2007.
Almost six years on from that momentous day in Yokohama, the four Springbok locks have come together again.
It was extra special to welcome De Jager back after health issues almost derailed his career in 2023.
Before the Springboks’ World Cup squad was announced two years ago, De Jager was diagnosed with pericarditis, an inflammation of the pericardium, the thin, two-layered, fluid-filled sac that covers the outer surface of the heart.
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The then 30-year-old, who was part of the successful side in 2019, was left out of the squad for the World Cup in France, where the Boks would go on to defend their title.
“When I saw him [De Jager], I almost jumped on him. So it’s amazing to have him back, and it’s great to have RG back,” Etzebeth told reporters on Wednesday.
“I think this is the first time since 2019 that us four locks who played together are back together in the Springbok mix, which is special.
“These are guys I have walked a long road with, been through some tough times, and also some very good times. So it is great to have Lood back with us.
“I watched some of his games early on Saturday mornings and saw him performing very well in the Japanese league. He is an exceptional player, and I am happy he is back.”
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