Junior Springbok head coach Kevin Foote welcomes a 42-man training squad to Stellenbosch on Wednesday, 21 January. The camp represents a major milestone in the SA U20s’ 2026 campaign preparations. Foote has emphasised mental freshness and technical foundations as crucial elements for success.
The squad features a strategic blend of battle-hardened regulars and exciting talent from last year’s successful SA U18s. Thirteen players who toured France and Ireland late last year will return. Foote explained that workload management influenced selection decisions significantly. Several players missed the European tour last November to allow proper recovery. These youngsters endured a taxing year including Grade 12 examinations, school programmes, FNB U18 Craven Week and the U18 International Series.
Foote said bringing them in fresh provides a big positive for the coaching staff. The players are training hard with their unions and expectations remain high. He believes talent is not the issue but rather establishing the right cultural foundation. Creating the proper environment allows these young men to excel and reach their potential.
New players invited include props Kai Pratt and JG Badenhorst alongside lock AJ Meyer. Loose forwards Mumbere “Wasi” Vyambwera and Gert Kemp also received call-ups. Flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed, centres Markus Muller and Ethan Adams, plus speedy fullback Zekhethelo Siyaya complete the fresh faces.
The squad boasts several returning Junior World Championship winners from 2025. Captain Riley Norton leads the experienced contingent alongside Oliver Reid, Rambo Kubheka, Siphosethu Mnebelele and Alzeadon Felix. Flyhalf Vusi Moyo misses selection due to rehabilitation following a minor hip operation. Wing Cheswill Jooste continues his duties with the Vodacom Bulls in the United Rugby Championship. Utility back Luan Giliomee currently represents the Springbok Sevens programme.
Foote described the camp as a high-intensity training and technical preparation block. The focus centres on sharpening traditional Junior Bok DNA elements. These include set-piece dominance, kicking game, solid defence and attacking flair. Understanding the game model remains paramount for the coaching staff and players.
Foote stressed the importance of establishing a strong set-piece platform. Game management represents another crucial focus area. Players must understand which field areas to exploit whilst maintaining high tempo.
The squad departs for Georgia on 15 February and returns on 28 February. The tour includes three matches in extremely challenging conditions. Training and playing in temperatures below freezing will test the players’ resolve. Preparation includes training matches against FNB Varsity Cup sides UCT and Maties.
Foote acknowledged the Georgian tour will test the team regarding conditions and culture. However, it provides an excellent opportunity to focus on controllable factors. Building team combinations, understanding their culture and creating shared memories remain priorities. These moments provide reflection points when hard times arrive during the season.
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