Junior Boks coach Kevin Foote has made an injury-enforced change to his squad for the U20 Rugby Championship in Gqeberha.
Hooker Siphosethu Mnebelele (ankle injury) has been replaced by Mahle Sithole.
“Injuries are unfortunately part of the game, and we want to wish Esethu well with his recovery,” said Foote. “He is one of our leaders in the group and has a lot of experience of the Junior Boks set-up.
“However, his injury has now given Mahle a great chance to showcase his abilities, and I am sure he is excited about his call-up.”
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SA U20 are the reigning world champions, having won the competition in Italy last year, but have yet to taste success in the Sanzaar competition.
New Zealand won the opening two editions of the U20 Rugby Championship, which was launched in 2024.
The Junior Boks open their campaign against Argentina on Monday, 27 April at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, with defending champions New Zealand taking on Australia in the other fixture.
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Foote said the squad, which includes several members of last year’s world-title-winning group, is eager to make a strong impression on home soil.
“We are all excited to be here and are looking forward to the week’s training and our participation against the best teams in the southern hemisphere,” he said.
“We will complete our final preparations in Gqeberha before our opening match against Argentina.”
2026 U20 Rugby Championship Fixtures (SA times)
Round 1, 27 April
New Zealand vs Australia (2pm)
South Africa vs Argentina (4:10pm)
Round 2, 3 May
New Zealand vs Argentina (2pm)
South Africa vs Australia (4:10pm)
Round 3, 9 May
Argentina vs Australia (2pm)
South Africa vs New Zealand (4:10pm)
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
