Junior Boks Bolster Pack for Georgia Rematch

Published: February 25, 2026

Key Forwards Return to Starting Lineup

Tbilisi, Georgia – Following a dominant 35-0 victory over Georgia last Sunday, Junior Springbok coach Kevin Foote has strengthened his pack for Friday’s rematch. Stalwarts Oliver Reid and Siphosethu Mnebelele have been recalled to the starting front row.

The return to standard 23-man match-day teams sees a shift from the broader squad utilized in the series opener.

Backline Continuity with One Change

Foote has largely maintained continuity in the backline, with Zekhethelo Siyaya replacing Dylan Miller at fullback. Miller will now feature on the bench. Siyaya was a late withdrawal from the first game due to illness.

Pack Reshuffle and Experienced Leadership

Significant changes have been made to the pack. Kebotile Maake will start at No. 8, replacing Reuben Kruger and Wasi Vyambwera joins Luke Canon in the loose forward trio.

Reid and Mnebelele, both members of last year’s Junior Bok squad that won the U20 World Championship in Italy, bring valuable experience to the set piece. Their inclusion means Phiwayinkosi “Rambo” Kubheka and Liam van Wyk will provide forward cover from the bench.

“We are exceptionally pleased to welcome Ollie and Esethu back into the starting XV. They are vital members of our leadership group who understand the standards we set for the Junior Bok jersey.”

Kevin Foote, Junior Springbok Coach

Addressing Second-Half Performance

Despite the convincing first-game scoreline, Foote emphasized the need for improvement. The coaching staff has focused on addressing issues from a scoreless and penalty-strewn second half.

“While the 35-0 scoreline was a great start, the second half was a real arm-wrestle where we lost some of our clinical edge and discipline.”

Kevin Foote, Junior Springbok Coach

Foote noted the players have been incredibly honest about their shortcomings – especially regarding the penalty count and have worked to improve their set-piece dominance.

Preparing for a Physical Challenge

The Junior Boks are anticipating a strong response from Georgia in the final clash, expecting a physically demanding contest.

“We aren’t under any illusions – we expect Georgia to reach out even harder in this final clash. They are a well-drilled, proud, and incredibly physical side.”

Kevin Foote, Junior Springbok Coach

Team Lineups

Junior Springbok Starting XV: 1. Oliver Reid, 2. Siphosethu Mnebelele, 3. Danie Kruger, 4. Heinrich Theron, 5. Riley Norton (captain), 6. Luke Canon, 7. Mumbere “Wasi” Vyambwera, 8. Kebotile Maake, 9. Hendré Schoeman, 10. Yaqeen Ahmed, 11. Jordan Steenkamp, 12. Ethan Adams, 13. Muller Markus, 14. Lindsey Jansen, 15. Zekhethelo Siyaya.

Replacements: 16. Liam van Wyk, 17. Phiwayinkosi “Rambo” Kubheka, 18. Kai Pratt, 19. JD Hattingh, 20. Risima Khosa, 21. Luan Giliomee, 22. Samuel Badenhorst, 23. Dylan Miller.

FAQ

• Who are the key returning players for the Junior Boks? Oliver Reid and Siphosethu Mnebelele have been recalled to the starting lineup.
• What was the score of the first match against Georgia? The Junior Boks won the first match 35-0.
• What area of play is the coaching staff focusing on improving? The team is working on maintaining clinical edge and discipline, particularly in the second half.

The match kicks off at 13h00 (SA time) on Friday and will be live streamed by the hosts (details to be confirmed).

Stay tuned to 247sports.news for continued coverage of the Junior Springboks!