Could Springboks lose this young talent to England qualification?
Could Springboks lose this young talent to England qualification?
As a new four-year World Cup cycle begins, it’s worth noting that the majority of the current World Cup winning squad could still make it to the next tournament in 2027.
However, there are several veterans who are in the twilight of their careers, and some fresh faces will undoubtedly come into the mix. This is certainly set to be the case when it comes to the outside backs, especially considering the likes of Willie le Roux and Makazole Mapimpi are heading into their mid-30s.
As the Springbok coaches begin to consider some alternative options, one name that should not escape their attention is that of Tyrone Green.
The former Lions and Junior Springbok star – who is comfortable playing at fullback or on the wing – is currently enjoying another standout season for English club Harlequins.
What shouldn’t be overlooked is the fact that as soon as next year, the 26-year-old will qualify to play for England after five years in the country.
Will the Springboks come calling for Tyrone Green?
Notably, in an interview with RugbyPass, he has made it clear that his first preference would be to feature for the Springboks. But he would also not rule out the alternative if an opportunity with England arrived first.
“I’ve always been honest about my desire to play for the Springboks,” he reiterated. “Ever since I first picked up a rugby ball, I had that desire. If it can happen it would mean the world to me.
“But I also recognise that this is my job. I play rugby to support my family, and to put food on the table for my son. “If my work takes me down a different path, I’m OK with that. I won’t let my emotions get in the way of making the right decision.”
*Do you think Green would be a good fit at the Springboks? Let us know by adding a comment at the end of this article.
The Springboks will soon start their season against Wales, and here is a look at the full 13 confirmed fixtures.
2024 FIXTURES:
Saturday, 22 June: SA vs Wales (Twickenham, London)
Saturday, 6 July: SA vs Ireland (Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria)
Saturday, 13 July: SA vs Ireland (Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban)
Saturday, 20 July: SA vs Portugal (Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein)
Saturday, 10 August: Australia vs SA (Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane)
Saturday, 17 August: Australia vs SA (Optus Stadium, Perth)
Saturday, 31 August: SA vs New Zealand (Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg)
Saturday, 7 September: SA v New Zealand (DHL Stadium, Cape Town)
Saturday, 21 September: Argentina v SA (Estadio Unico Madre de Ciudades, Santiago)
Saturday, 28 September: SA v Argentina (Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit)
Sunday, 10 November: Scotland vs SA (Murrayfield, Edinburgh)
Saturday, 16 November: England vs SA (Twickenham, London)
Saturday, 23 November: Wales vs SA (Principality Stadium, Cardiff)