A file picture of the Junior Boks during the June 2023 game against Italy at the Under-20 World Rugby Championships at the Paarl Gymnasium. File Picture: Phando Jikelo, African News Agency (ANA)
The Junior Springboks have made significant changes to their starting lineup ahead of their final clash against the Georgia Under-20s on Friday in Tbilisi.
Head coach Kevin Foote has opted for a rotational approach, handing the captaincy to Riley Norton as the SA Under-20s look to end their tour on a high note. The match is set to kick off at 3pm (SA time).
The two teams previously met last Sunday, with the Junior Boks showcasing resilience and determination in freezing conditions to secure a 38-29 comeback victory. Now, with a fresh-looking line-up, they aim to build on that performance.
Norton’s inclusion at lock is one of six changes to the forward pack, as he pairs up with Morne Venter in the second row while Heinrich Theron moves to the bench. The 19-year-old Norton, a Paul Roos Gymnasium product, has already made a name for himself by representing South Africa in both rugby and cricket at school level.
Foote has opted for a completely new front row, bringing in Simphiwe Ngobese, Siphosethu Mnebelele, and Jean Erasmus. The loose trio also sees two changes, with only Divan Fuller retaining his place at flanker, while Thando Biyela and Stephanus Linde step into the other two positions.
In the backline, Dominic Malgas shifts from outside centre to flyhalf, forming a fresh halfback pairing with Haashim Pead. Scott Nel takes over at outside centre and will partner with the powerful Pieter van der Merwe in the midfield.
Foote’s Perspective
Reflecting on last week’s encounter, Foote praised his team’s effort in adapting to the tough conditions and expects another challenging test on Friday.
“Last week was a great team effort in difficult conditions against a determined home team, who used the conditions well and made us work hard to adapt. In the end, we did so successfully,” Foote said. “We are expecting another physical battle against Georgia, but we’re looking forward to building on our performance and trying out different combinations, which is why we’ve opted for these rotational changes.”
The coach also acknowledged the extreme weather conditions, with the team training and playing in near sub-zero temperatures – an experience far removed from the summer climate of Stellenbosch.
“This match is another great opportunity for us to continue growing as a squad, implementing our game plan, and measuring our progress. Our preparations have gone well, and it’s pleasing to see the development of the group. Everyone understands the importance of a good performance and what it means for our country. We’re grateful for the opportunity to represent South Africa again and look forward to Friday’s challenge.”
With the Junior Boks keen to finish their tour on a positive note, fans will be eager to see how the new combinations perform in what promises to be another intense showdown in Tbilisi.
Junior Springbok Team to Face Georgia
Starting XV: 15. Gilermo Mentoe, 14. Cheswill Jooste, 13. Scott Nel, 12. Pieter van der Merwe, 11. Chijindu Okonta, 10. Dominic Malgas, 9. Haashim Pead, 8. Stephanus Linde, 7. Thando Biyela, 6. Divan Fuller, 5. Morné Venter, 4. Riley Norton (captain), 3. Jean Erasmus, 2. Siphosethu Mnebelele, 1. Simphiwe Ngobese
Replacements: 16. Ranon Fouché, 17. HB Odendaal, 18. Tebogo Nkosi, 19. Heinrich Theron, 20. Xola Nyali, 21. Yabo Ndzamela, 22. Ceano Everson, 23. JT Kapank
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