Springboks Call Up New Players As Reinforcements Ahead of Ireland Test
- Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has decided to call fresh players ahead of South Africa's clash against Ireland
- The reigning World Champions will be without the two players who have been sent off in their back-to-back games when they visit Dublin next weekend
- The decision to add new players to the Springboks squad ahead of Ireland's clash sparked different reactions from fans on social media
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Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has added two new players to his squad ahead of their mouthwatering clash against Ireland on Saturday, November 22, 2025.
Source: Getty Images
The reigning world champions defeated Italy on Saturday, November 15, 2025, and also claimed victory over France when they visited Paris last week.
The Springboks still have two fixtures remaining on their tour, with Ireland awaiting them in Dublin this weekend at the Aviva Stadium, and Wales to follow in Cardiff on 29 November 2025.
Springboks call up new players
The Springboks released an official statement confirming the addition of Bongi Mbonambi and Ntuthuko Mchunu to the squad ahead of the clash against Ireland.
“Hooker Bongi Mbonambi and prop Ntuthuko Mchunu will link up with the Springboks in Ireland on Sunday as Rassie Erasmus and his coaching staff prepare for the final two fixtures of the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour, against Ireland and Wales,” the statement confirmed.
“Mbonambi, part of the Castle Lager Rugby Championship squad, was among the players placed on Erasmus’ standby list for this tour, while Mchunu last featured for the Boks in the 2024 Castle Lager Incoming Series, earning his third Test cap against Portugal in Bloemfontein.”
Rassie Erasmus explained that the decision to call up Bongi Mbonambi and Ntuthuko Mchunu was driven by the length of the tour and the two major Tests ahead against Ireland and Wales. He noted that both players have proven themselves at the international level, and the coaching staff is excited to have them back in the group.
Erasmus added that several squad members will be unavailable for the final Test against Wales because it falls outside the international window. Bringing the new players in early allows them to settle in, train with the team, and strengthen the squad’s depth ahead of the crucial clash with Ireland.
Source: Getty Images
Here's what fans are saying about Erasmus' decision to call up Mbonambi and Mchunu for the game against Ireland.
Lusizo Kwetshube shared:
"If there was ever doubt on the impact OX has on the Springboks scrum yesterday game was a demonstration."
Francois De Wit wrote:
"I think he is a bit disgusted in the front row that started the Italy test...not sure if they were" weak" or if the Italians were better than expected."
Vuyisile Boyana commented:
"They (Ireland) always play dirty! Targeting players' old injuries…notice when playing big teams how certain players leave the field injured! 6/2’s the way to go!"
David Searle said:
"Would have thought a lock was required given the suspensions to Lood and Mostert."
Lorinda Nel added:
"The call-up of players does not always mean in the starting 15 or bench, even. Training still needs to happen at full capacity, or do these couch coaches think the team trains scrums against 5 men.... really long-term plans also count. Still a few games to go and possible injuries....oh by the way logos according to the purse and primary or secondary sponsorship.... mmmmmm"
Kolisi appreciates his biggest supporter
Briefly News also reported that Kolisi took time to appreciate his biggest supporter after hitting a new milestone with the Springboks.
The Boks captain led his team to victory against France in Paris last weekend.
Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.
Source: Briefly News
