The fact that most of the current Springboks who have won the World Cup are still eligible to compete in 2027 is definitely noteworthy.
However, it’s also important to note that a number of prominent players are approaching the end of their Test careers. Here, we look at the players who may soon be saying goodbye to the Boks.
Even though it will be disappointing to see Makazole Mapimpi play fewer and fewer games for the Springboks, the seasoned winger is 33 years old. Mapimpi already dropped out of the Bok first-choice matchday 23 at the most recent World Cup; while he’s still in excellent form, his Test career is probably about to wind down in the coming seasons.
Cobus Reinach will turn 34 in February. The tough scrumhalf had a fantastic season with the Springboks, but it will be interesting to see how much more international rugby Reinach plays given the abundance of cover provided by players like Grant Williams and Jaden Hendrikse.
Trevor Nyakane, one of the forwards for the Boks, is currently in his mid-30s. Although he might still play a few years of Test rugby, it’s very likely that his playing time will start to decrease.
Then there is, of course, Deon Fourie, a 37-year-old World Cup winner.
The versatile forward doesn’t seem to be considering retirement just yet, but it wouldn’t be a huge surprise if the World Cup final ends up being his last game in the green and gold.
