Springboks' European Tour: Rugby World Cup Stars Return for Matches

In October 2024, South Africa's national rugby team announced the return of four Rugby World Cup winners to the squad for their European tour. Franco Mostert, RG Snyman, Damian Willemse, and Andre Esterhuizen, all of whom faced injury setbacks, are set to rejoin the team after missing the Rugby Championship, which the Springboks won for the first time since 2019. Their comeback is a significant boost for the squad as they prepare for crucial test matches against Scotland, England, and Wales in November. Willemse, who had been sidelined with a shoulder injury, makes his first appearance in a Springboks squad since the 2023 World Cup final against New Zealand, indicating a major recovery milestone for him. Mostert, who had sustained a broken leg during a match against Ireland earlier in the year, also returns to bolster the team's ranks. This renewal of talent is essential for upcoming matches that may dictate South Africa's performance on the prestigious international stage. The 34-man squad was announced by coach Rassie Erasmus, who noted the impact of injuries on player selection. Key absentees include prop Steven Kitshoff and lock Lood de Jager, who are both recovering from their respective injuries and will not participate in the European tour. As the Springboks embark on a training camp in the Channel Islands ahead of their European matches, the reintroduction of experienced players strengthens their overall strategy and competitiveness in international rugby for the remainder of the year.