The South African national rugby team wrapped up their two-week training period in Johannesburg on Thursday. Head Coach Rassie Erasmus shared his thoughts on the inclusion of three promising Junior Springboks in the senior team’s setup.
Fresh from their victory at the World Rugby U20 Championship, Bathobele Hlekani, Cheswill Jooste, and Haashim Pead were invited to participate in training sessions with the senior squad. This invitation aligns with Erasmus’ continuous effort to strengthen squad depth and familiarize rising talents with the expectations of international-level rugby.
“Having Bathobele, Cheswill, and Haashim join us was a wonderful experience,” Erasmus stated. “We were very impressed by how seamlessly they integrated into the training drills and utilized the opportunity to engage with the Springbok players and absorb knowledge from them.”
Erasmus was quick to temper any speculation about an imminent promotion to the senior squad, emphasizing that the invitations were purely for developmental reasons.
“We clearly communicated that there was no obligation for them to master all of our strategies and systems immediately. Instead, it was an opportunity for them to witness our working methods and understand the demands of this level. They fully embraced this chance.”
Jooste, who previously played for the SA U18s team, expressed that the experience provided him with a more distinct understanding of the differences between youth and senior rugby.
“Even though it was challenging, I learned a significant amount. I am leaving with fresh perspectives and increased self-assurance,” Jooste remarked. “Being inspired by the players I admire was particularly memorable.”
Pead, who concluded the U20 tournament as the Junior Boks’ second-highest try scorer, described the last two weeks as “amazing” and stated that the high standards in the training camp had heightened his focus.
“These elevated standards have certainly motivated me to dedicate my utmost effort to reaching their level.”
Hlekani mentioned that he had received valuable technical advice from the forwards and coaching staff. “The training sessions were conducted at a very intense pace, which was beneficial for us. I will definitely incorporate what I’ve learned to improve my performance.”
Erasmus conveyed his hope that the players would utilize this experience as they progress into the next stage of their development.
“They all possess promising futures, and it is our hope that this experience and the knowledge gained will serve them well.”
