Junior Springbok coach Kevin Foote has finalized his lineup for Saturday’s Junior World Championship final against France in Tbilisi, Georgia, introducing three changes to the starting XV. The team enters the final following a 53-37 victory over England in the semi-finals, while France secured their spot by defeating New Zealand 26-22.
Strategic Adjustments for the Junior World Championship Final
Foote has opted for two adjustments within the forward pack, focusing specifically on the loose trio. Wasi Vyambwera will start at No 8, shifting Gert Kemp to the bench, while Risima Khosa enters the starting lineup at flanker.
The only change in the backline is forced by disciplinary action. Alzeadon Felix replaces Luan Giliomee at fullback after Giliomee received a red card during the semi-final win against England. Despite the disruption, the coaching staff maintains that the squad’s internal accountability has been a primary driver of their success this season.
Did you know?
The Junior Boks are aiming for back-to-back world titles after defeating New Zealand 23-15 in last year’s final held in Italy. A win on Saturday would mark the first time a South African junior side has achieved consecutive global championships.
Coaching Philosophy and Team Readiness
According to Kevin Foote, the team’s cohesion has been bolstered by a long training period together since the start of the year. Foote noted that the players’ willingness to engage in honest assessments of their performance has allowed the coaching staff to identify and resolve tactical weaknesses throughout the tournament.
“France are a very formidable side and fully deserve their place in the final,” Foote stated. “Their performances in the recent JWC and the Six Nations show that they understand how to perform when playing knockout rugby.”
Junior Springbok Final Selection
The team tasked with challenging France at the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium features a mix of established starters and tactical rotations. The match is scheduled to kick off at 18:30.
Starting XV: 15 Alzeadon Felix, 14 Cheswill Jooste, 13 Markus Muller, 12 Ethan Adams, 11 Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, 10 Yaqeen Ahmed, 9 Hendre Schoeman, 8 Wasi Vyambwera, 7 Luke Cannon, 6 Risima Khosa, 5 JD Hattingh, 4 Heinrich Theron, 3 Danie Kruger, 2 Siphosethu Mnebelele (captain), 1 Oliver Reid.
Substitutes: 16 Liam van Wyk, 17 Rambo Kubheka, 18 Luan van der Berg, 19 Jaythen Orange, 20 Thomas Beling, 21 Gert Kemp, 22 Jayden Brits, 23 Samuel Badenhorst.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the captain of the Junior Springboks for the final?
Siphosethu Mnebelele will captain the side against France.
Why was Luan Giliomee left out of the squad?
Giliomee is unavailable for the final due to a red card received during the semi-final victory over England.
Where is the Junior World Championship final taking place?
The match is hosted at the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium in Tbilisi, Georgia.
Stay updated with the latest rugby developments and tournament results. Subscribe to our newsletter for comprehensive match reports and analysis.