Three Springbok locks approaching their last lineouts
· The South African
These legendary locks will soon take part in their last lineout, but they have locked their place in history as Springboks legends.
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That moment is edging closer for a generation of towering locks who have helped define a golden era in the green and gold.
South Africa has never been short on world-class second-row talent.
From the brute force of enforcer Bakkies Botha, to the lineout genius of Victor Matfield and the uncompromising edge of Kobus Wiese.
The lock jersey has always carried weight, expectation and history.
Over the past decade, the Springboks have continued this culture through players like Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Franco Mostert, RG Snyman and more recently, Ruan Nortje.
However, three of these iconic Springboks are entering the final chapters of their storied careers.
Central figures
Eben Etzebeth (34), Lood de Jager (33) and Franco Mostert (35) remain central figures in the Springboks current story.
However, by the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup cycle in Australia, all three will be deep into the final chapter of their Test careers.
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ETZEBETH ENFORCES EXCELLENCE AS END EDGES CLOSER
Eben Etzebeth has become the benchmark for modern Springbok physicality – physical dominance and sheer brute strength.
The most-capped Springbok of all time currently sits on 141 Test appearances and is on course to become the first South African to reach the historic 150-cap milestone.
If he achieves this remarkable feat he will join an elite and prestigious group of legends that includes Alun Wyn Jones (Wales), Sam Whitelock (New Zealand) and James Slipper (Australia)
Despite the mileage on his body, his motivation remains unchanged. In fact, it may be stronger than ever.
With South Africa chasing an unprecedented third consecutive Rugby World Cup title in 2027, Etzebeth remains central to coach Rassie Erasmus’ plans.
Should the Springboks triumph again, they would become the first nation to win three Rugby World Cups in succession.
Etzebeth will be 36 by the tournament’s conclusion. Therefore, retirement is a very real possibility.
Regardless of when he walks away, his place among the greatest Springboks – and locks – in rugby history is assured.
ALSO READ: END OF AN ERA: THREE SPRINGBOKS FACING THEIR FINAL SCRUM
MOSTERT: THE HEARTBEAT OF THE PACK
Franco Mostert built his reputation through relentless effort, courage and consistency.
Years of fearless commitment may have taken their toll on the 84-Test veteran, but his influence remains undeniable.
Every tackle, carry and defensive shift reflects the selfless qualities that defined his career.
By the end of the 2027 World Cup cycle, Mostert will be 36 making retirement increasingly likely.
Even so, he remains the embodiment of the grit, sacrifice and work ethic that have underpinned South Africa’s success over the past decade.
LOOD DE JAGER: POWER, SETBACKS AND RESILIENCE
Lood de Jager’s career has been defined by both excellence and adversity.
The towering lock appeared destined to play a key role in South Africa’s 2023 Rugby World Cup defence before being diagnosed with pericarditis shortly before the tournament in France.
The condition ruled him out of the global showpiece and threatened to derail his career altogether.
Thereafter, he made a remarkable return to professional rugby, before suffering another major setback when a serious hip injury required surgery.
Every comeback has reinforced his value to the Springboks.
By the time the 2027 Rugby World Cup concludes, De Jager, who has 73 Test caps to his name, will be approaching the twilight of his Test career at 35.
Not because his quality has diminished, but because years of elite-level collisions, injuries and physical sacrifice inevitably take their toll.
WHO DO YOU THINK HAS WHAT IT TAKES TO FOLLOW IN THE LEGENDARY FOOTSTEPS OF EBEN, FRANCO AND LOOD?
Give us your thoughts in the comments section below …