Rassie Erasmus had an enormous pool of talent to choose from when naming his Springboks squad for the 2026 international season.
By Keisha-Lee Opperman
The Springboks are preparing for four Tests against New Zealand, however, there are still several experienced players who could arguably further strengthen the world champions for the series.
Some have been placed on standby, while others were released or overlooked as Erasmus continues to balance experience with the development of his next generation.
Here are five players who could still force their way back into the Springboks picture.
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5. Bongi Mbonambi (Sharks)
Bongi Mbonambi is not completely out of the picture, but the veteran hooker currently finds himself on standby rather than among the core group being used for the upcoming Test programme. That is particularly notable given that he recently captained South Africa against Argentina, showing that Erasmus still trusts his experience.
The 34-year-old remains an obvious option if Erasmus wants additional experience at hooker against New Zealand. South Africa are renowned for their dominant set piece, and a front row featuring Mbonambi alongside Thomas du Toit Ox Nche would provide an imposing combination of power, experience and physicality.
Mbonambi has also played numerous Tests against the All Blacks and understands the demands of the rivalry. With New Zealand boasting experienced options such as Codie Taylor, his familiarity with Test rugby could prove invaluable. With Erasmus continuing to manage his squad and assess his options at hooker, Mbonambi’s standby status means the door is far from closed.
4. Makazole Mapimpi (Sharks)
Makazole Mapimpi’s omission is perhaps one of the clearest examples of the strength of competition in the Springboks’ outside backs. The veteran winger was part of Erasmus’ wider plans earlier in the year, but the emergence and continued selection of players such as Cheslin Kolbe, Kurt-Lee Arendse and Canan Moodie has made it increasingly difficult for the 47-cap World Cup winner to force his way into the matchday group.
That does not mean Mapimpi has lost his ability to make an impact. He remains one of South Africa’s most experienced finishers and has scored 33 Test tries. His pace, finishing ability and experience in high-pressure matches could make him a valuable option against New Zealand.
At 36, Mapimpi is no longer being viewed as the future of the Springboks’ backline, but that could make his experience even more valuable in a four-Test series. A back three containing Mapimpi alongside Kolbe and Damian Willemse would give Erasmus a mixture of speed, kicking ability, experience and attacking instinct.
