UCT Star Makhaza Called into Bok Camp, Future Cap Possible

(The Post News)– Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has backed Ntokozo Makhaza as a future international, though he doesn’t expect the Varsity Cup standout to earn a cap this season.

Makhaza, 23, was a surprise inclusion in the Springbok squad for the start of the international season, news he only discovered via social media. The UCT winger has never played professional rugby but is a proven Varsity Cup performer, known for his pace and accuracy off the tee. He is also pursuing a degree in psychology and social development.

“He’s consistently been the top Varsity Cup player,” Erasmus said on Thursday. “Especially in point scoring, probably one of the best in the competition’s history. It’s been a pleasure to work with him.”

Although Erasmus ruled out immediate involvement in July’s Tests against Italy and Georgia or the Barbarians clash in June, he believes Makhaza could become a Springbok in future. “He’s slotted in really well, but we’re also being realistic. He’s not far off the pace,” he said.

“I think he’s going to make it one day. And if we hadn’t given him this chance, we’d never know.”

Erasmus also confirmed several players are unlikely to feature in 2025 due to long-term injuries, including Trevor Nyakane, Frans Malherbe, Deon Fourie, Elrigh Louw and Cameron Hanekom. On the upside, World Cup winners Pieter-Steph du Toit, Jasper Wiese and Grant Williams are set to return to full fitness in the coming weeks.