Springboks: Why These Former Stars May Never Return

• The former Springbok flyhalf, a 2019 Rugby World Cup winner, is unlikely to play for South Africa again after being handed a four-year suspension for testing positive for Clenbuterol
• After being named SA Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2018, Dyantyi’s promising career was derailed by a four-year ban for testing positive for anabolic steroids
• The rise of new talent, including world-class wingers like Cheslin Kolbe and Makazole Mapimpi, has made it difficult for players like Jantjies and Dyantyi to make a comeback

A handful of former Springboks have likely played their last game in the famous green and gold jersey.

While representing the national team is a lifelong dream for many, maintaining a place in the squad is just as challenging—especially with South Africa's incredible depth in talent. Here’s why two once-promising Boks, including a Rugby World Cup winner and an SA Rugby award recipient, may have reached the end of their international careers.

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Elton Jantjies

Elton Jantjies, a 2019 Rugby World Cup winner, is unlikely to feature for the Springboks again.

The former Lions and Bok flyhalf was handed a four-year suspension after testing positive for Clenbuterol, a banned substance. Jantjies' suspension runs until 2028, by which time he will be 37, turning 38—well past his prime for international rugby.

Given the nature of his ban and the rising talent at flyhalf, a return to the Springbok setup seems highly improbable.

Aphiwe Dyantyi

Aphiwe Dyantyi’s international career was full of promise before it came to a sudden halt.

After being named SA Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2018, the explosive winger saw his career derailed when he tested positive for anabolic steroids, leading to a four-year ban. Dyantyi missed both of South Africa’s back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs and has since struggled to regain his best form.

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Though he has returned to professional rugby, stints with the Sharks and now the Bulls have yet to restore his once-electric reputation.

With the Springboks boasting world-class wingers like Cheslin Kolbe, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Makazole Mapimpi, and Edwin van der Merwe, Dyantyi remains far down the pecking order.

Barring a remarkable resurgence, a Springbok return seems out of reach.

The Harsh Reality of Professional Rugby

Both Jantjies and Dyantyi once looked set for long and successful Springbok careers, but bans and missed opportunities have all but ended their chances of returning to the national setup. With South African rugby in a golden era and new stars constantly emerging, their stories serve as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in professional sport.

Eben Etzebeth Faces Setback in Concussion Recovery,

Briefly News previously reported that Springbok legend Eben Etzebeth has faced a significant setback in his recovery from a concussion, with a relapse in symptoms delaying his return to the field by another month.

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The Sharks have emphasized player welfare, prioritizing Etzebeth's full recovery and working closely with concussion specialists to ensure he is symptom-free before returning to action.

Although his return was initially expected by the end of March, his prolonged absence raises concerns about his readiness for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

The Sharks and Springboks coaches continue to prioritize his long-term health over a hasty return.

Source: Briefly News