Share

Ox Nche invited to Springbok alignment camp

Cape Town - Cheetahs prop Ox Nche has been added to the invited group of players for the final Springbok alignment camp, which starts in Durban on Sunday. 
 
The former Junior Springbok front rower will join the 15 Sharks players at the third camp, from April 22-25. The Springbok management are using the three alignment camps to accelerate preparations for the forthcoming international rugby season.
 
Rassie Erasmus, SA Rugby’s Director of Rugby, said the main reason why no such camp could be arranged for the Bloemfontein-based players is because the Cheetahs were already very busy with their PRO14 commitments.
 
“From a logistics point of view, their training, travelling and playing schedule made it very difficult for us to arrange a camp with those players,” said Erasmus.
 
“It is something that I discussed with Rory Duncan and he was happy that we invite only Ox to this camp, because having only one player missing from their squad for two days of a match week will not disrupt them that much.
 
“Other players from the Cheetahs, or from our other franchises, who play themselves into contention will be managed on a case by case basis. That could possibly mean working with such players on their off days for instance, depending also on the Cheetahs’ progress in the competition.”
 
No on-field activities are planned for the alignment camps and the focus of the various sessions is exclusively on alignment, which will ensure a smooth transition from the franchises to the Springboks when the squad gets together for the June internationals. 
  
The updated group invited to the third Springbok alignment camp in Durban are:
 
Forwards

Ox Nche (Cheetahs), Tendai Mtawarira (prop), Coenie Oosthuizen (prop), Thomas du Toit (prop), Chiliboy Ralepelle (hooker), Akker van der Merwe (hooker), Jean-Luc du Preez (loose forward), Dan du Preez (loose forward)
 
Backs

Louis Schreuder (scumhalf), Cameron Wright (scrumhalf), Robert du Preez (flyhalf), André Esterhuizen (centre), Lukhanyo Am (centre), Lwazi Mvovo (wing), Sbu Nkosi (wing), Curwin Bosch (fullback)

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE