- Jonathan Roche has attracted international interest, but his ambitions remain firmly rooted in South African rugby
- The Stormers centre has turned down opportunities to represent other countries as his career continues to gather momentum
- A contract decision and his recent Champions Cup performance have added fresh interest to his international prospects
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Stormers centre Jonathan Roche has turned down opportunities to represent Ireland and Zimbabwe as he pursues his ambition of playing international rugby for the Springboks. The 23-year-old Cape Town-born midfielder has attracted interest because of his family heritage, but he remains focused on his career in South Africa.
According to Rugby365, Matt Norton, global head of rugby at Roc Nation Sports International, confirmed Roche's preference for the Springboks.
“Yes, he is eligible for Ireland,” Norton told the publication. “At the moment Roche would like to play for the Springboks. He is a Cape Town boy and a South African through-and-through.”
Zimbabwe made an approach while Roche was at university
Ireland was not the only country to express interest in Jonathan Roche. Zimbabwe also explored the possibility of securing the Stormers centre's services, approaching him two years ago while he was studying at the University of Cape Town.
Roche qualifies to represent Zimbabwe through his father's family, but he declined the opportunity. Matt Norton, global head of rugby at Roc Nation Sports International, confirmed the approach in an interview with Rugby365.
“His dad’s side is from Zimbabwe,” Norton said. “He turned that down as well.”
Norton added that Roche was settled in Cape Town, where his family lives, and was performing well for the Stormers.
Jonathan Roche's Stormers contract and Springboks prospects
Roche's current Stormers contract is due to expire at the end of the season. Norton confirmed that the midfielder would extend his stay with the Cape Town franchise.
Roche made his Stormers debut towards the end of 2024 and strengthened his reputation with two tries in their 49-12 Investec Champions Cup victory over Bristol Bears on 17 October 2026.
He has also faced the All Blacks during the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry tour and attended a Springbok alignment camp in 2025.
His performances have put him on the international radar, but an alignment camp invitation does not guarantee selection for the Springboks. For now, Roche's immediate priority is to continue developing with the Stormers while keeping his international ambitions alive.
Source: Briefly News
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