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Bulls, Stormers snap up brightest schoolboy 10s

Three of South Africa’s most exciting schoolboy flyhalves have already been snapped up by the country’s top unions. According to Rapport, the Bulls have secured two standout prospects in Jaydon Viljoen and Travis Pfeiffer – underlining a fierce race for next-generation talent. Viljoen, from Hoërskool Monument, recently grabbed headlines with a monster near-60m drop goal against Grey College, showcasing the kind of range that has set him apart this season. Pfeiffer, the playmaking star from Paul Roos Gymnasium, joins him in Pretoria as another highly-rated No 10. WATCH: Monnas 10 nails 60m drop goal Meanwhile, the Stormers have landed Ethan van Biljon from Hoërskool Stellenberg. The SA Schools representative is widely regarded as one of the standout names in schoolboy rugby this year, having already attracted interest from clubs in Japan and Europe, as well as other local franchises. The trio’s performances have not only excited fans but also caught the attention of top-level coaches. Vlok Cilliers, currently France’s kicking coach, has been particularly impressed by the kicking ability of Viljoen and Van Biljon. Viljoen’s booming boot has already drawn comparisons to former Springboks Johan Goosen and Frans Steyn during their school days — both of whom made their names with long-range kicks on Grey College’s fields. FULL STORY Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images The post Bulls, Stormers snap up brightest schoolboy 10s appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.

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Middle East conflict threatens Boks Tests

The Springboks’ Nations Championship Test schedule remains on track, but growing tensions in the Middle East have sparked contingency planning. According to Rapport, rugby administrators are drawing up a Plan B to ensure the smooth running of the new tournament, which kicks off on 4 July, amid uncertainty over how the crisis could impact key stakeholders. One major concern is whether Qatar Airways will be able to honour a proposed £80-million (R1.8-billion) title sponsorship deal for four tournaments over eight years, given the effect of the conflict on the airline and the country. “The Tests will definitely go ahead,” a source told Rapport. “We are already working on an alternative plan. It is really difficult to say when they will make a decision on their sponsorship. We are just waiting in suspense.” MORE: 100 Days until Nations Championship lights up rugby While organisers remain confident the matches will proceed, the Qatar sponsorship is seen as key to the long-term success of the competition. Talks with Qatar Airways over a deal have reportedly stalled, with organisers seeking clarity after more than a year of negotiations. Doha had also been earmarked to host the 2028 finals weekend, but that arrangement is now uncertain. FULL STORY Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images The post Middle East conflict threatens Boks Tests appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.

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