England star eligible for Springbok Rugby World Cup 2027 selection
· The South African
Despite being spoilt for choice with depth across every position, Rassie Erasmus and the Springboks may have another quality player to select – if they so wish.
A 11-cap England Test player will be available for selection for the upcoming Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia.
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SHOCK SPRINGBOK SWITCH ON THE CARDS?
Somerset West-born David Ribbans, 30, could send shockwaves through the rugby world by switching allegiance to the Springboks.
He has not featured for England national team since Rugby World Cup 2023.
With World Rugby’s three-year stand-down period nearing completion, Ribbans is on the verge of becoming available for South Africa.
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This means the imposing lock will officially be eligible to represent his country of birth, South Africa, at next year’s tournament Down Under.
According to reports on Ruck, Rassie Erasmus has already made contact with Ribbans, sounding out the towering second-rower as he looks to reinforce his lock stocks.
With questions around depth in the engine room, Erasmus appears proactive rather than reactive.
RIBBANS TO FOLLOW IN JEAN KLEYN’S FOOTSTEPS TO THE SPRINGBOKS?
Should Ribbans make the switch, it would not only strengthen the Springboks physically, but also add valuable Test experience and overseas polish to an already formidable pack.
Furthermore, he wouldn’t be the first lock to switch allegiances to the Springboks ahead of a World Cup.
Jean Kleyn played for the Springboks at Rugby World Cup 2023 after representing Ireland at Test level.
A cross-border twist may be brewing and it could reshape the Springbok second row ahead of 2027.
However, it must be noted that while Ribbans has not closed the door on jumping into a green and gold jersey, he doesn’t seem all that comfortable with the idea of playing for another country after England.
“You never say never, but I find it a bit strange when players play for two countries,” Ribbans was quoted on the same publication.