Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus is set to bring a highly-rated Junior Bok into the squad ahead of Saturday’s Test against Ireland in Dublin.
Erasmus hinted on Friday that he may need to summon a hooker and tighthead prop to reinforce the touring group, and while Bongi Mbonambi was initially understood to be on standby, Rapport‘s new information suggests the Bok boss has now instructed hooker Siphosethu Mnebelele to fly out.
Whether Mbonambi remains in contention to play against Ireland is unclear.
Mnebelele, the dynamic Bulls No 2, was one of the standout performers for the Junior Boks at this year’s World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy.
The former KES pupil captained SA Schools in 2024 and has become one of the most talked-about young forwards in the country.
Erasmus has shown a clear willingness to back youth on this tour, having already included tighthead prodigy Zachary Porthen in his November squad.
Mostert received a straight red card in the 11th minute for a dangerous tackle on Paolo Garbisi – the Boks’ second red card in as many weeks for upright collisions involving their towering locks.
But while Erasmus stopped short of criticising referee James Doleman, he made it clear the current directive is difficult for players of that size to navigate.
Erasmus told the media after the Test that the Boks would accept the decision, but admitted it stung on a personal level, especially because both cards affected captain Siya Kolisi.
It is what it is. What I say here doesn’t matter, I’m just very grateful that we had Ben O’Keeffe on the one AR side and the referee is experienced. I’m just sad that our captain in his 100th game and his next game, had to sacrifice [by being substituted].”
The Bok coach said he remains in favour of a 20-minute red-card system but emphasised that it’s not his place to dictate the laws.
