Dweba reclaims his Springbok spot
Joseph Dweba, the 28-year-old hooker, has received an invitation to the virtual Springbok alignment camp. This news signals a return to the national team setup for Dweba, who missed the Boks’ first alignment camp in the Cape earlier this year alongside Aphelele Fassi.
Rassie Erasmus has now set his sights on Dweba once again, revealed by Rapport.
Dweba’s Springbok Journey: Navigating Challenges
Dweba earned his first Springbok cap in 2021. He has played six Tests, with his last appearance coming against Argentina in Buenos Aires on 5 August 2023.
However, he suffered a major disappointment last year when the Springboks overlooked him as a replacement for the injured Malcolm Marx in the World Cup squad.
Instead, the Boks made the controversial decision to call up fly-half Handré Pollard, which ultimately proved to be a masterstroke. Following this setback, Dweba struggled to maintain his position at the Stormers, facing competition from JJ Kotze and André-Hugo Venter.
Rising Stars in the Springbok Hooker Ranks
Venter has emerged as a serious contender for a Springbok spot, impressing with his performances. The Bulls’ Johan Grobbelaar and Jan-Hendrik Wessels are also in the race. Marnus van der Merwe of the Cheetahs is another name to watch as the Springboks build depth in the hooker position for the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Dweba’s recent run of games for the Stormers has been crucial in earning him a place in Friday’s alignment camp. The young hookers are all vying for a spot, knowing that Deon Fourie, the Boks’ third-choice hooker at last year’s tournament in France, will retire from Test rugby before 2027.
Planning for the Future: Springbok Hooker Succession
The Springboks are keen to identify and develop a third hooker to work alongside Bongi Mbonambi and Malcolm Marx, with Fourie’s retirement looming. The virtual alignment camp is a crucial step in this process, allowing the coaching staff to assess the available talent and plan for the future.
Dweba’s inclusion in the camp indicates that he remains in the Springboks’ plans, despite the challenges he has faced. His experience and ability make him a valuable asset, and he will be eager to seize this opportunity to reclaim his place in the national team.
As the Springboks build towards the 2027 World Cup, developing their hooker contingent will be a key focus. With a mix of experience and emerging talent, they aim to create a formidable unit capable of taking on the best in the world and bringing the Webb Ellis Cup back to South Africa.