Springboks add two more uncapped players

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has added two more uncapped players to South Africa’s plans for the international season, with prop Carlu Sadie and lock JJ van der Mescht included for the first virtual alignment camp.

Springboks Add Two Uncapped Players

Sadie and Van der Mescht are the only uncapped names in a 21-player overseas-based group selected for the virtual Springbok alignment camp. Both came through South Africa’s junior structures and have earned recognition after strong club form in Europe.

Sadie is currently playing for Bordeaux-Begles in France, while Van der Mescht is with Northampton Saints in England. Their inclusion expands the pool of new players Erasmus has looked at this year as South Africa build depth ahead of a demanding international schedule.

Rassie Erasmus Continues Springbok Planning

The latest additions follow the first in-person alignment camp of the year, where a larger local-based group gathered in Cape Town. Erasmus said the purpose of these camps is to keep players aligned on South Africa’s systems, expectations and overall plan for the season.

“The main purpose of the alignment camps is to get everyone on the same page and ensure that they understand our values and what we are trying to achieve on the field, and with the international season drawing closer, it’s a good time to get the players tuned into our systems and structures, so by the time we have our first official training camp in June, everyone is aware of what we expect from them," said Erasmus.

Overseas Group Includes Experienced Core

Although Sadie and Van der Mescht are new faces, they join an experienced group that includes several Rugby World Cup winners and established internationals. The squad also features returning names such as Herschel Jantjies and Lukhanyo Am.

The camp is part of South Africa’s early-season preparation as the Springboks begin shaping their player pool for the 2026 Test calendar.

South Africa training squad:

Forwards: Pieter-Steph du Toit, Lood de Jager, Jean-Luc du Preez, Thomas du Toit, Jean Kleyn, Malcolm Marx, Franco Mostert, Carlü Sadie, Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman, Boan Venter, JJ van der Mescht, Marnus van der Merwe, Jasper Wiese.

Backs: Damian de Allende, Lukhanyo Am, Faf de Klerk, Herschel Jantjies, Jesse Kriel, Cheslin Kolbe, Manie Libbok.