A round-up of what some of South Africa’s leading Sunday papers are saying, including a look at whether Cheetahs and Kings players could play for the Springboks.
A major story in Rapport looks at whether there is genuine interest in players from the two South African PRO14 franchises from a national standpoint. According to the story, written by Hendrik Cronje, SA Rugby director of rugby Rassie Erasmus is looking at two players in particular. Kings wing Yaw Penxe and Cheetahs hooker Joseph Dweba stand a good chance of being involved in the Bok camps later this year. The duo both played for the Junior Springboks, with Dweba being linked with an overseas move after the end of the current PRO14 season.
Meanwhile, there is talk that the Junior Springboks could follow the example set by their seniors and also start paying attention to overseas-based players. This comes after 22 young South Africans committed their futures to European clubs after completing their schooling. Junior Springbok coach Chean Roux confirmed to Rapport that he is in contact with these players.
Finally, Rapport have linked Kwagga Smith with a return to the Blitzboks in time to play in the Tokyo Olympic Games. According to the story, Smith, who is currently playing for Yamaha Jubilo in Japan, would link up with the team in May. There is also interest from the Sharks in signing the flank.
Photo: Johan Pretorius/Gallo Images
