Rassie Erasmus Unveils Surprises for the Springboks
Fullback Aphelele Fassi has been in exceptional form for the Sharks in the United Rugby Championship, shining individually despite the team’s overall challenges. According to SABC Sport, he leads the competition with 18 clean breaks and 967 meters gained. He also contributed to nine tries, scoring four and assisting five. This outstanding performance has reportedly earned him a spot in the latest Springboks alignment camp.
The South African newspaper Rapport indicates that Fassi was invited to the virtual camp, boosting his chances of competing against Wales at Twickenham. The camp will primarily feature locally based players, as those active in the Top 14 and Premiership are unavailable. His Sharks teammate Phepsi Buthelezi will join the second camp as a backup number eight. Players such as Evan Roos, Cameron Hanekom, and Elrigh Louw from the Bulls and Stormers may miss the Wales match if their teams reach the URC final. Jasper Wiese is also not expected to participate in the Welsh game.
Fassi’s Journey Comes Full Circle with the Springboks
Aphelele Fassi made his Springbok debut against Georgia in 2021 and played a second match against Argentina later that year. Having not worn the green and gold since a 2022 match against Wales, his potential return against the same team would mark a significant comeback. Now 26, Fassi would provide additional depth at fullback, competing for the position with Damian Willemse and Willie Le Roux.
