Rassie Erasmus could have another forward option for the Springboks ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Former England lock David Ribbans set to become eligible to represent the Boks later this month.
The 31-year-old Toulon forward, who was born in Somerset West, will complete his three-year international stand-down period on 27 October. He won 11 caps for England, with his last appearance coming against Argentina in the 2023 Rugby World Cup bronze-medal match.
World Rugby’s amended eligibility rules allow for a player to represent two different countries, if a three-year stand down period has been served, and if that player qualifies through birth, citizenship or ancestry.
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Erasmus has previously confirmed his interest in the former Northampton Saints lock, naming him among the players being considered for the Springboks.
“We are also looking at someone like David Ribbans, not that they must get their hopes up,” Erasmus said.
However, eligibility does not guarantee a change of allegiance, and Ribbans has previously expressed reservations about representing two countries.
Speaking to The Telegraph in April 2025, he left the door open to a possible switch.
“You never say never with these things and South Africa was my home originally, but England has become my second home and I was super proud to play for them.”
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But Ribbans also made it clear that changing international allegiance was not a decision he would take lightly.
“I find it a bit strange when players play for two countries,” he said.
He added: “This is no slight on the Springboks, who are an amazing team. It’s just my view and I’m a bit stubborn in it. I’d put aside the potential glory for that because it wouldn’t be right towards England.”
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
The post Ex-England star’s Bok eligibility draws near appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Rassie Erasmus could have another forward option for the Springboks ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The post Ex-England star’s Bok eligibility draws near appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
