As the Springboks prepare to kick off their 2026 season in less than three months, head coach Rassie Erasmus is facing a towering problem. With a growing injury list in the second row, the door has swung wide open for a new physical presence to join the world champions—and all eyes are on Northampton Saints giant JJ van der Mescht.
The Depth Dilemma
The Springbok “Bomb Squad” is famous for its depth, but the lock position is currently under siege. With veterans Lood de Jager and RG Snyman sidelined with serious long-term injuries, the national team is suddenly looking thin in the engine room.
Erasmus has previously admitted that depth at lock was a concern even before these latest setbacks. This shift in circumstances might force a change in thinking regarding overseas-based talent.
Who is JJ van der Mescht?
At 26 years old and weighing in at a massive 140kg, Van der Mescht is a physical specimen perfectly suited for the Springbok brand of “Total Physicality.”
- Current Club: Northampton Saints (England)
- Status: Recently included in a virtual Springbok alignment camp.
- The “Rassie” Factor: Erasmus has described him as a “monster of a guy” but previously questioned if there was enough time to integrate him into the unique Springbok culture before the 2027 World Cup.
“I don’t need to dwell on whether I’m ready or not. Rassie is a very smart man and a great coach. He will know when I’m ready.” — JJ van der Mescht
Staying Grounded Amid the Hype
Despite the “Bok Fever” surrounding his potential call-up, Van der Mescht is keeping his focus on the pitch in England. He admits that he used to worry about doing “something special” to get noticed, but has since shifted his mindset to simply enjoying his rugby and trusting the process.
While the 2027 Rugby World Cup remains the ultimate goal for any South African player, Van der Mescht remains pragmatic: “If it doesn’t happen, it’s not the end of the world.”
