Junior Springboks claim title after stern New Zealand test
The Junior Springboks claimed the 2026 U20 Rugby Championship title after a tense 29-29 draw with arch-rivals New Zealand in Gqeberha on Saturday. However, the result also exposed several areas that still need improvement before the World Rugby U20 Championship in July.
South Africa entered the clash as overwhelming favourites after dominant wins over Argentina and Australia in the opening rounds. The Junior Boks crushed Argentina 48-21 before dismantling Australia 56-17. As a result, they needed only one log point against New Zealand to secure their first U20 Rugby Championship crown.
Despite their strong form, New Zealand provided a valuable reality check. The visitors had looked average earlier in the tournament. They edged Australia 34-29 before losing 25-17 to Argentina.
Yet they challenged the Junior Boks throughout the match. They also exposed weaknesses in key moments.
The game unfolded uncomfortably for the hosts. In the end, the draw reflected the contest fairly. South Africa learned they cannot rely solely on confidence and momentum at this level.
“We probably turned over the ball too easily at times, and that’s something we’ll definitely work on,” coach Kevin Foote admitted.
“Against a team like New Zealand, you get punished if you’re not clinical.”
Injury concerns overshadow celebrations
Winning the Rugby Championship marked an important achievement for the Junior Springboks. However, the team’s main objective remains defending the World Rugby U20 Championship title in Georgia later this year.
Foote knows there is still work to do after facing southern hemisphere opposition over the past fortnight. Although South Africa lifted the trophy, the performance against New Zealand exposed several shortcomings.
Strong foundations for World Championship defence
Although the performance against New Zealand lacked polish, the Junior Boks still appear capable of defending their world title.
The forward pack remains the team’s greatest strength. Led by Norton, South Africa dominated the set pieces throughout the tournament, especially in the scrums.
Away from the set pieces, Norton and prop Rambo Khubeka consistently generated momentum. Meanwhile, No 8 Kebotile Maake and blindside flank Wasi Vyambwera impressed as link players and attacking threats.
Scrumhalf Hendré Schoeman also adapted well to the pressure of replacing Haashim Pead after his standout 2025 campaign.
Schoeman may not possess Pead’s pace, but he brings aggression, sharp support play, and composure. His tactical kicking from the base of rucks still needs refinement. Nevertheless, he looks like a genuine talent.
Flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed started all three matches ahead of last year’s World Championship-winning playmaker Vusi Moyo. That decision underlines how highly the coaches rate him.
Ahmed impressed throughout the competition with his running game and reliable goal kicking. However, Moyo’s contribution from the bench after Adams’s injury reminded everyone of his quality.
Moyo offers a powerful boot and a natural ability to create space for teammates. Ahmed provides attacking spark and accuracy off the tee.
Foote now has healthy competition in a key position.
“We’ve won the tournament, we’ve tested our depth, and we’ve learnt a lot about ourselves,” Foote said.
“This experience will serve us well going forward.”
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