As the Springboks gear up for their next chapter, they’ve just announced a new squad for an alignment camp—bringing together talent from all corners, both at home and abroad.

It’s a crucial time for planning and preparation, especially with some key players dealing with injuries.

But while fans are excited about some fresh faces, there’s one major omission that has left many scratching their heads.

Juarno Augustus Finally Gets His Shot

One of the headline additions is Juarno Augustus, the former Junior Springbok Player of the Year.

After lighting things up for the Northampton Saints this season, he’s finally getting the attention many feel he’s long deserved.

With injuries shaking up the usual No. 8 contenders, it looks like Augustus’ hard work has paid off at just the right time.

A No. 8 Problem for the Boks

Right now, the Springboks are short on options at eighthman. Elrigh Louw and Ruan Venter are both sidelined, while Jasper Wiese is still recovering from a neck injury.

It’s left the coaching staff with tough decisions—do they shuffle veterans like Kwagga Smith or Siya Kolisi into the role, or lean into form players like Augustus?

Where Is Evan Roos?

Given the current situation, most would’ve expected Evan Roos to walk right back into the squad.

He’s a seven-cap Springbok who played at No. 8 in two Tests just last year. And after battling through injury, he’s found his rhythm again with some standout performances for the Stormers this season.

So… where is he?

A Resurgence That Should Have Caught Attention

A couple of seasons ago, Roos looked like the next big thing—aggressive, athletic, and full of promise.

But a rough patch with injuries seemed to slow that rise.

This season, though, he’s looked like his old self again, bringing energy and physicality back to the Stormers’ pack.

Which makes it even more puzzling that his name is nowhere to be found on the latest Springbok squad list.

What’s Behind the Snub?

It raises some fair questions:

Is it something happening off the field?
Are there still doubts about his discipline or consistency?
Or are the coaches simply looking at other tactical options?

Whatever the reason, the omission of Roos stands out—especially in such an extended squad.

With Rassie Erasmus likely to speak to the media soon, fans will be hoping for some clarity on what kept the 25-year-old out of the mix.

What’s Next?

As always with the Springboks, there’s more than meets the eye.

With big Test matches ahead and several players needing to prove their fitness, this camp is just the beginning.

Whether Evan Roos still has a shot at making it into the final squad—or whether this is a sign of a longer-term shift—remains to be seen.

What do you think—should Roos have made the cut?