- Jeandré Rudolph’s consistent performances have strengthened his case for higher honours, but a major challenge remains
- The Bulls loose forward has earned the backing of a former coach who knows his abilities well
- Competition among South Africa’s loose forwards could complicate Rudolph’s hopes of making the step up
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Bulls loose forward Jeandré Rudolph has been backed for a Springboks call-up after impressing over the past year, but doubts remain over whether Rassie Erasmus will select the 32-year-old for the upcoming Nations Championship Tests.
Rudolph has put himself in contention for international recognition, although South Africa have several established loose forwards competing for limited places in the national squad.
Jonathan Mokuena, who coached Rudolph at North-West University when the Potchefstroom-based side won the Varsity Cup in 2016, believes the Bulls forward has the ability to play Test rugby.
Mokuena backs Rudolph for Springboks selection
Speaking to Netwerk24, Mokuena said Rudolph could contribute at international level, but warned that selection was far from guaranteed.
“Jeandré is definitely good enough [for the Springboks] and he would undoubtedly be able to add value,” Mokuena said, according to SA Rugby Magazine.
He added:
“But I don’t know whether he will be selected for the upcoming [Nations Championship] Tests. Personally, I don’t think Rassie will bring him into the fold now just because he’s playing good rugby.”
Springboks loose-forward competition remains fierce
Mokuena highlighted the depth of talent in South Africa’s loose-forward department, naming Evan Roos, Vincent Tshituka and Hacjivah Dayimani as players who could also represent the country.
“They are all players who are good enough for the Springboks, but unfortunately the competition among the loose forwards is incredibly tough,” he said.
He also pointed to Kwagga Smith’s anticipated return from injury and André Esterhuizen’s ability to play at centre or flank as further considerations for the selectors.
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Rudolph’s mindset could prove important
Mokuena also praised Rudolph’s determination to prove doubters wrong, a quality he believes has remained evident since their time together at university.
“One of the things about Jeandré that still stands out to me after all these years is that he is someone who likes proving people wrong,” he said.
“I think it is difficult to stop someone with that kind of mindset.”
Rudolph’s performances will be important as he pursues a possible Springboks debut, although the competition for places remains a significant challenge.
Bulls face selection challenge ahead of Ulster clash
Briefly News previously reported that Bulls coach Johan Ackermann confirmed Springbok scrumhalf Embrose Papier would be sidelined for several weeks after undergoing ankle surgery.
The injury comes ahead of the Bulls’ URC clash against Ulster at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, 24 October 2026. With Papier unavailable, the Pretoria side will have to rely on its remaining scrumhalf options as it looks to maintain its momentum.
Source: Briefly News
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