Makazole Mapimpi’s remarkable Springbok career could be approaching an unfortunate conclusion, with the experienced winger potentially missing out on the opportunity to reach the prestigious milestone of 50 Test appearances.
The 36-year-old remains stuck on 47 Springbok caps, just three appearances short of the half-century mark. However, persistent injury problems and the emergence of a new generation of talented South African outside backs have placed his international future in serious doubt.
Injuries threaten Mapimpi’s 50-cap dream
With Cheslin Kolbe unavailable due to injury ahead of the Springboks’ end-of-year tour, Mapimpi might have been an obvious candidate for a recall.
Unfortunately, the veteran speedster is also battling fitness problems, currently recovering from a hamstring injury.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has previously indicated that the coaching staff would have loved to see Mapimpi reach 50 Test appearances. However, injuries have disrupted those plans, while the team’s long-term strategy increasingly involves introducing younger players into the backline.
Mapimpi has not represented South Africa since July 2025, leaving his international career at a potentially frustrating crossroads.
A Springbok career worth celebrating
Regardless of whether he reaches 50 appearances, Mapimpi has already secured his place among South Africa’s most memorable modern-day rugby players.
Making his Springbok debut at the age of 27, he defied expectations to become one of the country’s most dangerous attacking weapons.
His greatest moment came at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, when he became the first South African player to score a try in a Rugby World Cup final during the historic victory over England.
With 33 Test tries, Mapimpi also occupies third place on the Springboks’ all-time try-scoring list — an extraordinary achievement that reflects his consistency, finishing ability and contribution to South African rugby.
Younger wings are changing the picture
The competition for places in the Springbok backline has become increasingly fierce.
Ethan Hooker, Canan Moodie and Edwill van der Merwe are among the players pushing for opportunities, while established stars Kurt-Lee Arendse and Cheslin Kolbe remain important parts of the team’s plans.
The inclusion of Bulls outside back Sebastian de Klerk in the latest national group further highlights the coaching staff’s willingness to explore fresh options.
For Mapimpi, the challenge is no longer simply about recovering from injury. He must also convince the selectors that he still has a significant role to play in the Springboks’ future.
Will Mapimpi get one final opportunity?
There is little doubt that reaching 50 Test caps would be a fitting reward for a player who has given so much to the Springboks.
Three more appearances may seem like a relatively small target, but the combination of age, fitness concerns and increased competition makes the task considerably more difficult.
Could Rassie Erasmus find room for one final Mapimpi comeback, or have we already witnessed the last of the popular winger in the green and gold?
Whatever happens, his contribution to South African rugby deserves recognition.
Do you think Makazole Mapimpi deserves three more Springbok caps to reach the 50-Test milestone?
