Young loose forward Celimpilo Gumede has received a late call-up to the Springbok squad. Here’s what you need to know about the 23-year-old talent.
This week, it was announced by the Springboks that Bulls star Celimpilo Gumede, a loose forward, had joined the national training camp just as the 2024 Test season is about to begin. Although initially, no Bulls players involved in the URC were included in the squad, the Pretoria franchise made a decision to release the uncapped Gumede, who had participated in the last Springbok alignment camp.
This decision represents a significant vote of confidence in Gumede, who has consistently demonstrated his potential throughout the past season. Standing at 1.92 meters and weighing over 100 kg, Gumede combines notable physical prowess with remarkable mobility.
Gumede is versatile, able to play both at No. 8 and as a blindside flanker, and it’s clear the Springbok coaches see something special in him. He is a product of the SA Rugby’s Elite Player Development program and hails from Zululand, where he attended Umfolozi Primary. His journey to the Springboks has been an interesting one; after attending Nuwe Republiek school in Vryheid, he moved to Durban where he finished his high school at DHS and played for Durban Collegians at the junior club level.
During his school years, Gumede participated in the U16 Grant Khomo Week, U17 Interprovincial Sevens, and U18 Craven Week, and was selected for the SA Schools team in 2017 and 2018. He later represented the Junior Springboks.
Gumede began his senior career with the Sharks, making his mark in the Currie Cup before his career truly took off after his move to the Bulls in July 2023. He debuted against Namibia in a friendly match and has since made multiple appearances in the United Rugby Championship and Champions Cup, proving his worth as a dynamic ball carrier.
Celimpilo Gumede Has Impressed the Springbok Coaches
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus praised Gumede’s performance: “Celimpilo has been playing impressive rugby this season and we are excited to see how he integrates into the squad and what he has to offer at training.”
Erasmus also expressed gratitude to the Bulls for allowing Gumede to join the Springboks, especially during a critical time in their URC season.
The Loose Forward Has Committed His Future to the Bulls
Earlier this year, Gumede confirmed his commitment to the Bulls by signing a new contract that will keep him at Loftus until June 2028. He shared his enthusiasm about the decision: “I had no doubt in my mind that I wanted to accept the offer because I have been in a good space since arriving in Pretoria and being with the Bulls family. There is a lot that comes with it, good culture, and good people outside of rugby. For me, it has been a huge blessing and opportunity to be with this team. I am really happy and I look forward to the future.”
