Junior Boks ramp up intensity ahead of crucial Georgia tour

Junior Springbok head coach Kevin Foote has expressed satisfaction with the South African U20 training squad’s trajectory as they intensify preparations for their forthcoming tour of Georgia.

The Junior Boks recently completed a high-tempo hit out against the University of Cape Town (UCT) on Monday afternoon. The squad is currently deep in its pre-season programme, fine-tuning technical and tactical game models for the 2026 season. Central to this preparation has been the early integration of the pack under forwards coach Lumumba Currie and coaching consultant Barend Pieterse.

“We brought the forwards in early so that Lumumba and Barend could get working together as soon as possible,” Foote explained. “Barend has only recently joined us, and we wanted to give them every opportunity to get stuck in.”

Foote noted that the results were immediate: “We saw against UCT what a great impact those two already have on the pack and the quality of the ball we are receiving. From a forwards' perspective, they are really gelling.”

While the squad features several new faces, Foote highlighted a core group of returning players ensuring the Junior Bok culture remains "seamless".

Veterans such as Riley Norton, Oliver Reid, Siphosethu Mnebelele, and Rambo Kubheka—all of whom featured in 2025—have been instrumental in mentoring the newcomers.

“There’s a lot of really good detail coming through, and it’s nice to have that same flow from last year,” said Foote. “Watching the experienced guys bringing the new boys through is very encouraging.”

The coach also praised the opposition provided by UCT, noting that their flair provided the perfect conditioning for his group. The physicality and pace offered by the "Ikeys" served as a stern test for the Junior Boks’ game model. Following a recovery day, the squad returned to the pitch on Wednesday to sharpen match details ahead of a training game against Maties in Stellenbosch on Thursday.

These local hit-outs are the foundation for 15 February, when the Junior Springboks depart for a two-week tour of Georgia. The tour is a vital component of their international preparations, featuring an opening clash against club side Lelo Saracens, followed by two demanding internationals against the Georgian U20s in the second half of next month.