With Kwagga Smith out until 2027, Cardinelli argues that Hacjivah Dayimani's early-season URC form has made a compelling case for a November squad call-up — not to jump the queue ahead of Hanekom and others, but to get him into the Bok system before injury chaos forces a panic selection. Dayimani's value mirrors Smith's: the ability to cover across the back row and into the backs, enabling the six-two or seven-one bench configurations Erasmus favours. What's new this season, per Schalk Burger's assessment, is that Dayimani is now doing the hard yards in the tight — 17 tackles against Edinburgh, consistent carries 'up the guts' — rather than just exploiting the edges. Cardinelli's argument is essentially about risk management: better Erasmus has a look at Dayimani on tour and gives him a clear development road map now, than scrambles for a Smith-type option in July if the worst happens ahead of the World Cup.
Dayimani as Kwagga's understudy — the case for bringing him into the Bok fold now
Cardinelli makes the case for bringing Dayimani into the November Bok touring squad as a contingency for the Kwagga Smith role, pointing to his improved physicality and hybrid utility as reasons Erasmus should assess him now rather than risk a last-minute scramble in 2027.
So how deep is the Springbok squad?
Lekker! Hola! Head to https://squarespace.com/squidgerugby to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code SQUIDGERUGBY
Springbok Recall! Relive Phepsi Buthelezi's 2025/26 Season
#SharksRugby #PhepsiButhelezi #Springboks
Brown confirms post-2027 All Blacks move but eyes World Cup glory with Boks first
Springbok attack coach Tony Brown will join Dave Rennie's All Blacks staff from 2028, but remains committed to helping South Africa win a third successive World Cup title before his departure.
Tony Brown to join All Blacks backroom staff in 2028 after Springbok contract ends
NZR have confirmed Tony Brown will join the All Blacks' backroom staff in 2028 on a two-year contract, with the Springboks attack coach set to depart after the 2027 Rugby World Cup. It is the third time NZR have pursued Brown, having previously been rejected during the Foster and Robertson eras.
Rassie Erasmus to receive Order of Ikhamanga — South Africa's highest national honour
Rassie Erasmus will receive the Order of Ikhamanga — South Africa's highest national honour — from President Cyril Ramaphosa at an investiture ceremony on 19 May, recognising his role in the Springboks' back-to-back World Cup titles and his contribution to national unity.