The Junior Springboks won both matches against Georgia in Tbilisi to clinch the series 2-0. Those positive results aren’t the only thing they gained on tour.
The South Africa Under-20 side won their first match 38-29 at the Avchala Stadium. In the second, the Junior Boks celebrated a 27-12 victory.
In recent years, the Springboks (3.95) have been able to count on a steady supply of talent – including from junior structures. There are signs that the current group has some top prospects for Rassie Erasmus and his staff to monitor.
A tight-knit team off the Field
After arriving in Tbilisi, Junior Bok head coach Kevin Foote emphasised the importance of connecting as a group – something that he believes will be hugely important going forward this season.
The Junior Boks are set to play in the 2025 editions of the Sanzaar-organised U20 Rugby Championship (April and May). Subsequently, they will compete in the World Rugby U20 Championship (June and July). The venues for both tournaments must still be confirmed.
In an interview with TelecomAsia Sport ahead of the two matches, Foote explained that their objectives aren’t just centred around on-field performances. Instead, he said things like having “deep conversations” and “understanding where they come from” are crucial.
Following their mini series-clinching win, Foote said: “The tour was fantastic for many reasons.
“We came here to ensure we connected as a group, and it was great to see the team bonding so well. The time we spent together was invaluable, laying a strong foundation as we move into the rest of the season.
“We have an amazing group of players and staff, and I’m incredibly grateful to SA Rugby and Georgia for making this experience possible.”
Weather Didn’t Dampen Junior Boks’ Performances
Given the icy conditions in Georgia, the Junior Boks’ ability to adapt was quite a talking point ahead of the tour.
Not only was the weather a factor, but they also had to be wary of certain areas where the Georgians are traditionally strong, particularly the scrums.
But it was ultimately an area in which the South Africans didn’t disappoint.
“Our goal was to play games and test ourselves, and training against the Lelo Saracens and playing two matches against Georgia provided just that. They challenged us physically, and it was crucial for us to understand our game better.
“We focused on our set piece, scrum, maul, and maul defence, and I want to thank all the coaches for their excellent work in these areas. Overall, there were many positives, but there’s still a lot to work on. I can’t wait to get together again in two weeks.”
The Coaching Staff Will Continue Preparations
One area that could possibly do with another look-in is the breakdown. Both sides were guilty of errors on the ground in the second match.
The weather, of course, was a factor. Foote and his coaching staff can take positives from the experience. In tough conditions, their team stood up and dominated territory and possession. They put that to use and scored some good tries, dominating the game even with 14 men after a yellow card.
The group returned home on Sunday and will continue their preparations in Stellenbosch.
