With the start of 2025, Planet Rugby has highlighted five players who could potentially make their international debuts for South Africa, the reigning Rugby World Cup champions. After securing back-to-back World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023, Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus continues to deepen the team’s talent pool. He selected 12 new Test players in 2024, and many expect this number to grow in 2025. Below are players likely to earn a call-up to the national squad:
JD Schickerling (Stormers)
Schickerling, 29, has been instrumental in the Stormers’ improved lineout performance, contributing to their 90% success rate in the United Rugby Championship (URC). His return from Japan coincided with better results for the team, particularly in the set-piece. Schickerling, who rotates between the number four and five lock positions, has been a mainstay in the Stormers’ starting lineup and could provide invaluable depth to the Springboks, especially with his expertise in the lineouts.
Ethan Hooker (Sharks)
Known for his versatility, 21-year-old Hooker has impressed for the Sharks by excelling in both centre and wing positions. Although his preferred position is inside centre, Hooker has played well at outside centre and wing when needed. His work ethic, physicality, and solid performances have made him a fixture in the Sharks’ starting lineup, a team often packed with Springboks. These qualities make him a strong candidate for the Springboks’ squad in 2025.
David Kriel (Bulls)
Kriel, 25, has made a name for himself primarily at inside centre for the Bulls, but he’s also proven valuable as an outside centre and full-back. His creative play in the midfield has been crucial to the Bulls’ success, and he’s known for his defensive solidity and strong kicking game, both from hand and at goal. Kriel’s all-around skills make him a promising option for Springboks selection in 2025.
Marnus van der Merwe (Scarlets)
Van der Merwe, a former Cheetahs hooker, has continued to impress since joining the Scarlets in the 2024/25 season. His dominant ball carrying and strong core skills earned him a man-of-the-match award in a URC victory. After being included in a Springboks alignment camp earlier in 2024, he remains on the national team’s radar. With the Springboks’ top hookers, Bongi Mbonambi and Malcolm Marx, advancing in age, Van der Merwe could provide fresh energy for the team as they look ahead to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Juarno Augustus (Northampton Saints)
A physical and dynamic ball carrier, Augustus has been a standout player for Northampton Saints, helping them secure victories in the 2024/25 Premiership. Despite the Springboks’ already strong back-row depth, Augustus has consistently been regarded as a top talent in the northern hemisphere. He is expected to move to Ulster at the end of the season but could still earn a Springboks call-up if his form continues. Having previously been named World Rugby’s Junior Player of the Year in 2017, Augustus remains determined to achieve his dream of representing South Africa.
These players represent a blend of physicality, versatility, and solid form that could see them join the Springboks for international duties in 2025, further strengthening the squad’s depth.