Edinburgh prop Boan Venter, who previously played for the Cheetahs, has been called up to the Springbok squad for the upcoming matches against the Barbarians, Georgia, and Italy. This surprise call-up comes as Venter was not part of the initial training camps hosted by coach Rassie Erasmus earlier this year and has never been a member of the Springbok squad before.
Erasmus made the decision to trim his training squad from 55 players to 45, with Venter being the only new addition to the squad. This move came after props Gerhard Steenekamp and Ntuthuko Mchunu were released due to injuries. Venter, who was part of the Junior Springbok training group in 2017, will now have the opportunity to represent his country at the highest level.
In addition to Venter, several other injured players have been released from the squad, including Lukhanyo Am, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Cameron Hanekom, and Juarno Augustus. Five other players have also been released to their unions to continue their rehabilitation.
The majority of the squad will gather in Johannesburg to continue their preparations for the upcoming matches. Players from the Bulls, who recently competed in the United Rugby Championship Grand Final, will join the squad later, along with RG Snyman. Handre Pollard and Thomas du Toit, who played in the Premiership final, will also report for duty at different times.
Erasmus expressed satisfaction with the first week of training and emphasized the importance of assessing player depth and readiness for the international season. He also highlighted the need for cover in certain positions due to injuries, while acknowledging that some players will complete their rehabilitation at their clubs.
Regarding Venter’s call-up, Erasmus praised the prop for his consistent performances for Edinburgh in the URC and the EPCR Challenge Cup. He noted Venter’s familiarity with South African structures and expressed excitement to see him in action for the Springboks.
The Springboks will begin their season with a match against the Barbarians in Cape Town before facing Georgia and Italy in Test matches. The squad features a mix of experienced players like Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth, as well as promising talents like Venter who will have the opportunity to make their mark on the international stage.
