The stage is set for an epic, historic showdown as the defending champion Junior Springboks prepare to battle France in the final of the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Tbilisi, Georgia, this Saturday.
Under the guidance of head coach Kevin Foote, the South African U20 side is on the cusp of rugby history. Having lifted the trophy in 2025 by conquering New Zealand, the class of 2026 is aiming to become the first-ever South African squad to win back-to-back global junior titles.
Team Selection: Tactical Tweaks & Forced Changes
Foote has opted for stability but has made critical adjustments to his match-day squad to tackle a highly physical French pack.
- The Loose Trio: Wasi Vyambwera earns the starting nod at No. 8, with the versatile Gert Kemp moving to the bench to provide explosive second-half impact. Risima Khosa also steps up to occupy the starting flanker position.
- The Backline Change: In an enforced change following Luan Giliomee’s semi-final red card, Lions prospect Alzeadon Felix takes over at fullback.
“The pleasing aspect of this group is their honesty and accountability,” Foote commented. “We’ve used this week to sharpen our readiness and focus on the areas where we felt we could improve. We believe we have prepared well for what will be a massive challenge.”
Kick-Off Time & How to Watch (Critical Channel Update!)
Due to a massive weekend of rugby—including the senior Springboks vs Wales Test match in Durban—the junior final has a unique broadcast home.
- Fixture: Junior Springboks vs France (U20 World Championship Final)
- Date: Saturday, 18 July 2026
- Venue: Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, Tbilisi, Georgia
- Kick-off Time: 18:30 (South African Time)
- TV Channel: SuperSport Action (Channel 210). (Note: The match will not be shown on the standard Grandstand or Rugby channels due to scheduling overlaps).
Junior Springboks Match-Day Squad
15 Alzeadon Felix, 14 Cheswill Jooste, 13 Markus Muller, 12 Ethan Adams, 11 Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, 10 Yaqeen Ahmed, 9 Hendré Schoeman, 8 Wasi Vyambwera, 7 Luke Cannon, 6 Risima Khosa, 5 JD Hattingh, 4 Heinrich Theron, 3 Danie Kruger, 2 Siphosethu Mnebelele (c), 1 Oliver Reid.
Replacements: 16 Liam van Wyk, 17 Rambo Kubheka, 18 Luan van der Berg, 19 Jaythen Orange, 20 Thomas Beling, 21 Gert Kemp, 22 Jayden Brits, 23 Samuel Badenhorst.
- Referee: Reuben Keane
