Kevin Foote has backed continuity ahead of Saturday’s U20 Rugby Championship decider against New Zealand in Gqeberha.
The Junior Boks coach has made just one change to the match 23 that powered past Australia last weekend, with loose forward Risima Khosa returning to the bench in place of Gert Kemp.
The hosts head into the clash at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium knowing a single log point will be enough to secure the U20 Rugby Championship title for the first time.
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But despite New Zealand’s recent defeat to Argentina, Foote insists there will be no complacency from his side.
“For us in rugby, it doesn’t get better than South Africa versus New Zealand,” he said.
“They are our greatest rivals and the opportunity to play them in front of the Gqeberha crowd at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is a privilege for everyone involved with the Junior Boks.
“We have huge respect for the New Zealanders and, like us, they will be highly motivated to end the tournament on a high.
“Our objective on Saturday is about more than just the trophy – it’s about our growth and continuing the journey we’ve started with this group.
“These two teams have a history of producing memorable encounters when they meet, and it’s every South African rugby player’s dream to stand facing the haka and take on New Zealand.”
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The Junior Bok coach added that preparations for the crunch clash have gone smoothly.
“The players are excited for this massive challenge, and the staff have done a tremendous job in keeping the group close-knit and in a very positive space.
“Gqeberha is a wonderful venue to host an international tournament such as the U20 Rugby Championship, and the people of the Eastern Cape have been outstanding hosts. We hope to repay that support with a quality performance against our greatest rivals on Saturday.”
JUNIOR BOKS – 15 Akahluwa Boqwana, 14 Jack Benade, 13 Samuel Badenhorst, 12 Ethan Adams, 11 Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, 10 Yaqeen Ahmed, 9 Hendré Schoeman, 8 Kebotile Maake, 7 Wasi Vyambwera, 6 Luke Canon, 5 Riley Norton (c), 4 Heinrich Theron, 3 Danie Kruger, 2 Liam van Wyk, 1 Rambo Kubheka.
Bench: 16 Mahle Sithole, 17 Oliver Reid, 18 Luan van der Berg, 19 JD Hattingh, 20 Risima Khosa, 21 Jayden Brits, 22 Vusi Moyo, 23 Jade Muller.
Photo: Richard Huggard/Gallo Images
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