The latest SA Rugby magazine is now on sale, with a special focus on how South African teams are breaking new ground in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship.
Blitzboks kick off preparations for new season
If the Springboks are to remain the No 1 team in the world for an extended period, South Africa’s entry into the United Rugby Championship needs to reap the anticipated rewards.
Although the four South African teams endured a challenging start to the competition, it stands to reason that it will take some time for the local franchises to adjust to a new competition with different opponents and law interpretations.
However, once the SA sides are back at home and can welcome the return of their Springbok stars, it should be a far more competitive affair.
Indeed, as our new cover suggests, some early pain should lead to long-term gain for South African rugby at the start of a groundbreaking move into northern-hemisphere competition.
In our latest print issue, we chat to Duane Vermeulen about his enduring ambitions in the final years of his career, with the world-class No 8 taking up a contract with Irish club Ulster through to 2023.
There is also an in-depth Q&A with veteran scrumhalf Ruan Pienaar, who enjoyed an iconic career with Ulster, but is now back at the Sharks on loan from the Cheetahs.
Among other players to keep an eye out for in the URC, flyhalf Johan Goosen is quickly forcing his way back into Springbok consideration, and Vodacom Bulls coach Jake White offers us some fascinating insight into what the 29-year-old can still offer the national side.
In another feature that is not to be missed, make sure you check out the inspirational interview with Blitzbok star Ronald Brown, who opens up about overcoming his battle with cancer and fighting his way back into the Springbok Sevens team.
Make sure you get your hands our new-look magazine, and keep your eyes peeled for a couple of QR codes that will redirect you to other avenues of audience engagement.
Craig Lewis
