When the Springboks unveiled their initial 54-man squad for the upcoming Tests against the Barbarians, Italy, and Georgia, one notable name was missing: Evan Roos.
The Stormers star had been a strong performer throughout the season, so fans were left puzzled.
But now, with Bulls No. 8 Cameron Hanekom sidelined due to injury, Roos is officially back in the mix — and coach Rassie Erasmus has taken a moment to clear the air.
Not About Politics, Just About Form
During a press conference on Thursday, Erasmus addressed the buzz around Roos’ absence from the original selection. He didn’t beat around the bush.
“It wouldn’t be fair to dive deep into team selections now,” he said, “but I’ve seen what people are saying out there.
I can tell you it’s definitely not personal.”
In other words — no drama behind the scenes. Just the usual tough calls that come with high-level squad selection.
Depth at No. 8 Made It a Tight Race
Erasmus was upfront: Roos is a quality player, but the competition in his position is fierce right now.
“He’s up against some of the best,” Erasmus explained.
“And while we all have our own opinions on who’s performing, we didn’t feel he was quite at the level of the others at this time.”
With options like Kwagga Smith, Siya Kolisi, and Juarno Augustus (despite his medical issues ahead of a move to Ulster), the back row is stacked.
Even before Hanekom got injured in the Bulls’ win over the Sharks, there was a logjam of talent.
“Sometimes a guy’s good enough,” Rassie said, “but a couple of others just fit better with where we’re going as a team.
It doesn’t mean Evan’s not Springbok material — he absolutely is. It’s just about the current setup.”
Timing and Injuries Open the Door
Roos was called up after Hanekom pulled up with a hamstring issue during the United Rugby Championship semi-final.
That unfortunate injury opened the door for Roos’ return — a reminder that in rugby, timing can be everything.
Juarno Augustus also fell out of contention after failing a medical at Northampton Saints.
With both him and Hanekom out, Roos now gets another shot to prove himself ahead of what promises to be a massive season for the Boks.
Springboks Ready for a Historic Clash
The Springboks will kick off their 2025 season with a first-of-its-kind clash against the Barbarians on Saturday, June 28.
It’s a symbolic start to a new chapter for the team, and fans are eager to see who gets the nod in key positions — including the hotly debated No. 8 spot.
So now that Roos is back in the mix, it begs the question…
Who Would You Pick at No. 8?
With the Test against the Barbarians around the corner, we want to hear from you.
Who should wear the No. 8 jersey for that opening match?