South Africa Boosts Rugby Squad with Several World Cup Winners

South Africa has reinforced its rugby team with multiple World Cup winners for upcoming Rugby Championship home tests against New Zealand. Key players, including Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg and Steven Kitshoff, among others, return from injury or suspension. The strengthened squad aims to continue their recent success in the championship.

South Africa has strengthened its lineup with a host of Rugby World Cup winners for the impending Rugby Championship home tests against arch-rivals New Zealand. Additionally, the team has re-invited lock Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg to enhance their second-row options, with prop Steven Kitshoff and utility back Canan Moodie returning from injury or suspension.

Coach Rassie Erasmus emphasized the significance of the returning players who have been consistent performers internationally. Janse van Rensburg, whose sole previous Test was against Argentina in 2021, has been called back to compensate for several injured players. "Having Steven, Jaden, and Canan back, along with the suspended Jasper and Andre, is a big boost," Erasmus said in a statement.

The squad has been carefully selected to include only two hookers—Malcolm Marx and Bongi Mbonambi—while Jan-Hendrik Wessels will serve as cover. The team, currently leading the Rugby Championship table by five points over New Zealand, comprises numerous players familiar with the systems, ensuring a seamless reintegration.

(With inputs from agencies.)