The Junior Springboks all but clinched the 2026 U20 Rugby Championship on Sunday evening when they thrashed Australia, and now attention will turn to kick off for the eagerly-anticipated match up against New Zealand.
Although there was some confusion after it was initially thought that South Africa had done enough to already clinch the title, the Junior Springboks must now beat New Zealand or at least claim a losing bonus-point this Saturday.
South Africa take on New Zealand on Saturday at 16:10 in their third and final U20 Rugby Championship fixture, while Argentina and Australia will play at 14:00.
Junior Springboks ready to kick off next battle
With one hand on the trophy, SA U20 head coach Kevin Foote credited the squad’s growth, grit and collective belief after another impressive result against Australia.
“I think the whole squad showed what it means to play for South Africa. We showed grit and I’m super proud of everyone.
“Our DNA is physicality, but it’s also skill,” he said. “You see the physicality in breakdown and how we want to play. This team plays with pride.”
New Zealand won’t be underestimated
Only if the Baby Blacks beat South Africa by a huge margin and deny them any losing bonus points, they would tie on 10 points and win the title via the head-to-head tie-breaker.
Junior Springbok captain Riley Norton emphasised the importance of character, connection, and shared responsibility within the group.
“The off-field connection has been unbelievable, and that carries onto the field. We’ve got an awesome group of guys who are willing to sacrifice for each other.”
Norton added that the home ground support gives them an extra emotional edge.
“It means a lot playing at home. You feel the crowd, and it pushes you to give more for the guy next to you.
“If you take your foot off the gas, a team like New Zealand will punish you,” he said. “We want to finish this tournament properly and keep improving.”
