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3w ago

Junior Boks Retain Winning XV for Australia With Van der Berg Added as Cover

Minimal changes reflect confidence in the game plan.

STELLENBOSCH, SOUTH AFRICA - APRIL 08: Luan Van Der Berg during the Junior Springbok Profile Shoot at Stellenbosch Academy of Sport on April 08, 2026 in Stellenbosch, South Africa. (Photo by Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images)
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Yaqeen Ahmed retains his spot at No 10 after scoring a try, creating another with a cross-kick, and slotting four out of eight conversions against Argentina last week. Picture: Richard Huggard/Gallo Images/Getty Images

Overview

  • The Junior Springboks, who face Australia in Gqeberha on Sunday, named a largely unchanged match-23 with only one starting pack switch at blindside flank for Wasi Vyambwera.
  • Backline tweaks include Khuthadzo Rasivhaga on the left wing and Akahluwa Boqwana at fullback, with lock Riley Norton continuing as captain.
  • Vodacom Bulls prop Luan van der Berg joined the squad after Kai Pratt’s foot injury and takes the bench prop slot, while Gert Kemp and Jade Muller round out the fresh bench options.
  • Following a 48-21 opening win over Argentina, coach Kevin Foote said the review targeted second-half drop-offs and set an 80-minute performance focus against a well-coached Australia.
  • The clash is round two of the southern-hemisphere U20 Rugby Championship, where a win would strengthen South Africa’s position heading into the final round.