England controversially cleared to play SA-born Benhard Janse van Rensburg

By SABC Sport
29th November 2025

England's backline depth is set for a major boost next year, after World Rugby granted a special exemption for South African-born utility back Benhard Janse van Rensburg.

Janse van Rensburg was initially considered ineligible to represent England, as the Bristol Bears player was tied to his home country after representing the South African U20s in 2016.

At the time, the U20s acted as a "capture" side for South Africa, meaning players could only switch international allegiance via a birthright transfer - through a parent or grandparent born in the country they wished to represent.

According to Telegraph Sport, England have successfully appealed Janse van Rensburg's link to the Springboks with World Rugby, citing "exceptional circumstances."

The Rugby Football Union reportedly argued that Janse van Rensburg's 20-minute appearance off the bench in South Africa's third-place play-off in 2016 - having not played a single minute earlier in the tournament - should not permanently bar him from international rugby.

Meanwhile, the Springboks have not expressed interest in calling up the Bristol Bears star despite his strong performances in Premiership Rugby.

According to the report, this argument was enough to satisfy World Rugby, and from the start of the 2026/27 season, Janse van Rensburg will be eligible for selection by Steve Borthwick.

Janse van Rensburg moved to the United Kingdom in 2021, playing for London Irish and Bristol Bears, and by the start of next season, he will have completed the five-year residency required to switch his international allegiance.