2024 marked a milestone in South African rugby as the Springboks solidified their reputation as global champions, continuing their dominance after the 2023 Rugby World Cup triumph. Unlike previous post-World Cup years, where dips in form followed, South Africa showcased consistency, losing only two matches and reclaiming the No. 1 world ranking from Ireland. A last-minute Ireland drop goal in Durban and an unexpected defeat to Argentina in Santiago were the year’s only blemishes. However, they bounced back with a commanding performance against Argentina in Nelspruit, arguably their best showing of the year.
Global Recognition and Evolution
The Springboks’ World Cup victory was not universally celebrated, but by year-end, grudging respect for South African rugby’s strengths was transforming into admiration. Coach Rassie Erasmus, overlooked for the World Rugby Coach of the Year award, furthered his reputation as an innovator, implementing a strategy that balanced evolution with depth-building.
The team’s progression under Erasmus included the addition of Tony Brown, a former All Black and attack specialist, as an assistant coach. While this led to initial growing pains, the Springboks demonstrated a willingness to adapt their game, resulting in a dynamic style that hinted at greater potential.
Success Beyond the Springboks
South African rugby’s excellence extended beyond the national team. Former Springbok Franco Smith guided the Glasgow Warriors to a United Rugby Championship (URC) victory, while Sean Everitt improved Edinburgh’s performance. Johann van Graan’s Bath team narrowly missed winning the Gallagher Premiership, losing to Northampton Saints in a controversial red-card-impacted final.
On the domestic front, the Vodacom Bulls excelled in the URC, outshining local rivals like the Stormers and Sharks, though they fell short in the final against Smith’s Glasgow Warriors. The Hollywoodbets Sharks captured the EPCR Challenge Cup, albeit in a competition considered less prestigious than the URC or Champions Cup.
Blitzboks and Junior Springboks
The Blitzboks secured an Olympic bronze medal in Paris, a significant achievement given their struggles in the World Sevens Series and a challenging qualification journey. Meanwhile, the Junior Springboks underperformed at the World Junior Championship, a surprising outcome given South Africa’s rich talent pool. Changes in coaching at both levels signal optimism for better results in the future.
Key Challenges and Opportunities
South African rugby’s commitment to both southern and northern hemisphere competitions, including the Rugby Championship and URC, created a relentless calendar with no off-season. The scheduling of the Carling Currie Cup during what should have been a break for provincial players sparked criticism. The result was a fragmented season that saw teams like the Sharks winning the Currie Cup during the pre-season, potentially compromising their URC campaigns.
Depth-building at the Springbok level emerged as a highlight of Erasmus’ strategy. Players like Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Aphelele Fassi, and Elrigh Louw stepped up, showcasing the country’s deep pool of talent. Feinberg-Mngomezulu, in particular, impressed with his composure and game-changing moments, including a long-range penalty that proved decisive in a comeback win over New Zealand.
Crowning Achievements
Winning the Rugby Championship for the first time in its full format since 2019 was a standout moment. The Springboks dominated the competition, clinching victories over Australia and New Zealand, extending their winning streak against the All Blacks to four matches. Despite their success, there was a sense that the team had yet to hit top gear, highlighting the potential for even greater achievements.
The performance of the year came in Nelspruit, where the Springboks dismantled Argentina with a commanding display led by Manie Libbok’s brilliant passing game. However, challenges like Libbok’s missed kick in Santiago and the drop goal that secured Ireland a draw in Durban served as reminders of the thin margins in elite rugby.
Domestic Rugby Highlights
The URC’s third edition underscored South Africa’s competitiveness, with the final hosted in the country for the third consecutive year. The Vodacom Bulls, bolstered by astute acquisitions like Wilco Louw and Willie le Roux, were the standout South African team. Despite their dominance, they faltered in the final against Glasgow. The Stormers, though less consistent than in previous seasons, remained competitive, while the Lions showed signs of resurgence, narrowly missing out on a top-eight finish.
The Sharks, under new coach John Plumtree, endured a disappointing URC campaign but found redemption in the EPCR Challenge Cup. Their victory in the final against Gloucester secured a place in this season’s Champions Cup. Plumtree’s focus on team culture appeared to pay off during their European knockout games, particularly in a dramatic semi-final win over Clermont-Auvergne.
European Competitions
South African teams made strides in the Champions Cup, with the Stormers pushing La Rochelle, the reigning champions, to the brink. Although the Bulls reached the quarterfinals, logistical challenges and squad rotation due to travel demands hindered their progress. The Sharks’ Challenge Cup victory offered a bright spot, signaling their potential to compete on the European stage.
Looking Ahead
2024 laid a strong foundation for South African rugby. The Springboks ended the year on top of the world rankings, showcasing depth, adaptability, and resilience. The successes of South African coaches and players abroad highlighted the global influence of the nation’s rugby. However, challenges remain, particularly around player workload and aligning domestic and international calendars.
With a wealth of talent, a commitment to evolution, and a proven winning formula, South African rugby appears well-positioned to maintain its dominance while inspiring future generations. The story of 2024 is one of achievement, growth, and the promise of even greater heights.
