South Africa prop on the verge of switching international allegiance

According to an observation by X user @RugbyInGermany, the official Pro D2 website recently changed Schonert’s listed nationality from South African to German while he continues to play for Vannes. While nothing has been confirmed, the update has sparked speculation that the 34-year-old could be considering a late-career change of allegiance.

Though Schonert may not have many years left at international level, he could offer Germany a valuable short-term boost as they look to retain their place in the Rugby Europe Championship. Beyond what he can offer on the field, his experience could be especially useful in mentoring younger players, particularly in the front row.

This wouldn’t be the first time Schonert has been close to representing a country other than South Africa. Thanks to an English grandmother, he qualified for England and was invited to a senior training camp by Eddie Jones in May 2017.

A hand ligament injury later ruled him out of England’s tour to Argentina, but he went on to feature for an England XV in a non-cap match against the Barbarians at Twickenham in 2018.

Earlier in his career, Schonert represented South Africa at the 2011 IRB Junior World Championship and was also selected for a South African Barbarians side to face Saracens.

After an impressive 11-year stint in English rugby split between Worcester Warriors and Sale Sharks, the tighthead prop now plies his trade in France’s Pro D2 with Vannes.

For now, it remains unclear whether Schonert will take the step of representing Germany, but it’s a situation worth keeping an eye on as the Black Eagles look to strengthen their squad.