Siyaya, Mahashe and Four Others Named as Possible Springbok Bolters for November Tour

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October 28, 2026

Sharks fullback Zekhethelo Siyaya and Sibabalwe Mahashe are among six players who could earn Springbok call-ups in November, according to IOL Sport.

The list comes as head coach Rassie Erasmus prepares for the November international window. The tour includes the first fixtures of the new Nations Championship.

IOL Sport said injuries to senior players have opened the door for new faces. Cheslin Kolbe and André Esterhuizen are both injured, and Kwagga Smith is also out.

According to the report, the Springbok management is trying to balance its World Cup-winning core with fresh talent. Several local players have pushed their case with strong form this season.

Siyaya is a former Westville Boys’ High School pupil. He moved into senior rugby with the Sharks and caught the eye with some explosive performances.

IOL Sport said his counter-attacking skill and natural instincts make him an exciting long-term prospect. He has also shown good touches to go with his running this season.

Stormers lock Norton is the second name on the list. He played cricket for South Africa at under-19 level before choosing rugby full time.

The former Paul Roos pupil captained the Junior Springboks to the World Rugby U20 Championship title in 2025. He then moved into the Stormers setup.

Norton stands 1.99m tall. He has already played for the Springboks against the Barbarians, and the report praised his work rate and lineout skills.

Bulls back De Klerk is the third player named. He suffered another injury in March and was out for six months with a foot problem.

He was in the Springbok mix before that injury. He has started the new season well and can play on the wing or at centre.

Outside centre Van Wyk, nicknamed “Weapon X”, is also on the list. IOL Sport said he is one of the most explosive centres in South African rugby.

The report said he could be tried at inside centre while Esterhuizen is injured. It pointed to his power, pace and strong tackling.

Mahashe could give Erasmus extra energy off the bench, the report said. His ball carrying, work rate and tackle success were singled out.

He captained Border at the under-13 Craven Week and later led the SA Schools side.

The sixth player is Stormers midfielder Roche, a product of Bishops and UCT. IOL Sport described him as a strong-running inside centre with solid passing and defence.

Reports said Irish rugby had shown interest in Roche. He has committed to the Stormers and hopes to play for the Springboks one day.

Source: this article is based on reporting by IOL Sport. Image: IOL Sport. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice Sports desk. See our Editorial Standards.