The Junior Springboks launched their Junior World Championship campaign with a 104-7 victory over Uruguay in Tbilisi on Saturday, running in 16 tries — including a penalty try — and leading 50-0 at half-time. Uruguay's only score came after the final hooter.
Wing Jordan Steenkamp and flanker Risima Khosa each claimed hat-tricks in what SA U20 head coach Kevin Foote described as a strong collective effort. "The players showed great intent from the start, and it's pleasing to begin the tournament with a strong performance," he said.
Foote acknowledged that the scoreline flattered the margin of control, noting Uruguay were competitive where it mattered. "They were very competitive at the breakdown and also challenged us in the lineouts. The conditions weren't easy with the wind, but I thought we adapted well, kept the ball in hand and played with good energy and purpose."
With an eye on the pool stage ahead, Foote confirmed squad rotation is coming. "We have a very good squad, and we'll give other players opportunities in the next game. The focus is on continuing to build and improve."
Next up for the Junior Boks are hosts Georgia, who lost a tight opener to Wales 25-24 and will be playing in front of a partisan crowd. "They'll be hurting after that loss and will come back strongly," Foote said. "We know they'll bring a big physical challenge, so we'll need to be ready for that."