Rassie Erasmus has selected a 56-man Springboks squad, marking the start of the 2025 season with a domestic-only lineup.
(The Post News)- Rassie Erasmus has unveiled his first Springboks squad of 2025, featuring exclusively domestic players. The 56-man lineup consists of 18 Sharks, 17 Bulls, 13 Stormers, and eight Lions. The squad will gather in Cape Town for a three-day alignment camp from March 7 to 12, preparing for a busy Test season that kicks off in July with home matches against Italy and Georgia.
Erasmus and his coaching staff will use the camp to outline strategic plans and set performance standards for the upcoming season. Virtual alignment sessions are also planned for overseas-based players, emerging talents, and injured players not attending this camp.
The squad includes 18 members from the 2023 Rugby World Cup-winning team, 10 of whom were also part of the victorious 2019 campaign. Additionally, 22 capped national players feature in the group, bringing valuable experience to the mix. Notable newcomers include Jurenzo Julius, JF van Heerden, and Reinhardt Ludwig, who will experience Springbok rugby for the first time.
The Springboks’ international season begins with back-to-back Tests against Italy on July 5 and 12, followed by a clash with Georgia on July 19. They will then defend their Castle Lager Rugby Championship title in August and September, facing Australia, New Zealand, and Argentina.
With a blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent, Erasmus is focused on setting a strong foundation for a challenging season ahead.