Blitzboks look to build depth while defending SVNS crown

The Springbok Sevens squad are in the final stages of their preparations, ahead of travelling to Dubai on Monday, 23 November, for the opening tournament of the 2026/27 campaign on 28 and 29 November. With the Cape Town leg following a week later, Snyman says there will be a slightly different approach this season, with opportunities for new players as they look to build sufficient depth and ensure their strongest possible squad is available for the crucial World Championship tournaments.

"Yes, excited to be back in camp two and a half weeks away from the start of the HSBC SVNS circuit. This year, we will have a bit of a different approach, leading a couple of new players, making sure that when we get to the grand finale with the last three tournaments, our best and most experienced team will be available – something that we have learned from last season," said Snyman.

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The Blitzboks have assembled a 38-player training group, which includes 20 uncapped players looking to make their mark at international level. The group features almost the entire squad that delivered the HSBC SVNS Series and World Championship double last season, with Mfundo Ndhlovu and Donavan Don having moved on to their respective United Rugby Championship (URC) commitments. Several Junior Springboks and standout performers from the FNB Varsity Cup have also been brought into camp, giving Snyman a wider pool of talent to assess ahead of the new season.

Snyman will announce his 13-man squad for the Dubai tournament next Friday, with several established players still working their way back from injury. Captain Impi Visser is back, however Zander Reynders, Jayden Nell and Shilton van Wyk, will all miss the opening leg as they continue their rehabilitation. The coach says most of his experienced players are fit and available, which provides a solid foundation heading into the new campaign.

Snyman will divide the training group into two smaller squads, with one preparing for the main HSBC SVNS tournament in Dubai, while the other will compete in the International Invitational Tournament. Snyman is encouraged by the quality and competitiveness within the group, but says maintaining that standard throughout the season will be important as they build towards the World Championship.