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Junior Springboks Make Sweeping Changes as Giliomee Shifts to Flyhalf

Foote says the rotation is designed to manage player load and sharpen the side for Georgia’s powerful set-piece game.

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA - MAY 26: Luan Giliomee of Junior Springboks scores a try during the U20 International Series match between South Africa and Fiji at Wynberg Boys' High School on May 26, 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Photo by Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images)
Giliomee shifts to pivotal role as Junior Boks make sweeping changes
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Overview

  • The team announced Tuesday that coach Kevin Foote retained only four starters from the 104-7 win over Uruguay as he named a heavily rotated XV for the July 2 pool match in Tbilisi.
  • Luan Giliomee has been moved from fullback to flyhalf and Markus Muller starts at inside centre while lock JD Hattingh is the only forward to keep a second consecutive start.
  • Foote explained the changes are driven by tight turnarounds in the U20 Championship and the need to protect player workloads ahead of a physically strong Georgian side.
  • Centre Ethan Adams and wing Khuthadzo Rasivhaga were omitted because of niggles and the replacements bench includes Liam van Wyk, Rambo Kubheka, Luan van der Berg, Jaythen Orange, Risima Khosa, Jayden Brits, Jordan Steenkamp and Alzeadon Felix.
  • The Pool A match is set for Thursday, July 2 at Avchala Stadium in Tbilisi with a 20:30 GET kick-off and Morgan White appointed as referee.