The Springboks’ 2025 Test season is fast approaching, and there is no doubt that the national coaches have big plans to continue blooding the next generation of talent.
It’s with this in mind that there are three players in particular who can expect to feature a lot more prominently this season.
Cameron Hanekom
Although the Springboks have received some good news that Jasper Wiese might be back in time for the July internationals, it still remains to be seen if he will really be suitably match fit after undergoing a neck operation.
Besides Wiese’s injury setback, Elrigh Louw has been ruled out for the season, and so there is almost certainly set to be an opportunity for Hanekom to add to his solitary Test cap from last year.
He has been in great form for the Bulls, and all the signs suggest this could really be his breakthrough year on the Test stage.
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
The 23-year-old was SA Rugby’s Young Player of the Year in 2024, and there is no doubt he would have already added to his eight Tests caps if not for an injury that ruled him out of the end-of-year tour.
In recent weeks, though, Feinberg-Mngomezulu has been in simply sensational form for the Stormers after settling in at flyhalf, which certainly seems to be the position where he will specialise.
Suddenly at the peak of his powers, you can expect him to feature at 10 regularly for the Springboks this season if he can stay fit and on form.
Jan-Hendrik Wessels
Another player who has produced some mesmerising play in recent times for the Bulls, with the 23-year-old truly coming of age this season.
Following the retirement of loosehead prop Steven Kitshoff, Wessels’ consistent rise could not come at a better time for the Springboks, and he certainly looks set to enjoy plenty of game-time this season.
It also can’t be forgotten that besides playing at prop, he can also offer back up at hooker, which only adds to his all-round value.
WHICH PLAYER ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT?
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