The Springbok coaching staff initiated preparations for the upcoming season with a strategic alignment camp held over two days in Cape Town. The event, which took place on Monday and Tuesday, saw coaches discuss their respective areas of expertise and chart the course for the 2024 season.

This camp marked the first in-person meeting of Springbok coaches since the team’s triumphant Rugby World Cup victory in France in 2023.

Notably, the gathering also welcomed new appointments, including Jerry Flannery and Tony Brown, who now serve as defence and attack specialists, respectively.

They fill the roles left vacant by Jacques Nienaber and Felix Jones, who departed for coaching roles in Ireland and England. Additionally, former international referee Jaco Peyper was introduced as the team’s national laws advisor.

While the coaching staff laid the groundwork, a select group of players was slated to join the camp on Tuesday evening. They were set to engage in a series of boardroom sessions until Thursday.

The primary aim of the alignment camp was to familiarize players with the demands of Springbok rugby and to align on key areas of focus for the upcoming season. Coaches intended to outline their expectations from players as they select the squad for the international calendar ahead.

The reigning world champions are set to kick off their season on June 22 against Wales at Twickenham.

Subsequent fixtures include the Castle Lager Incoming Series, featuring matches against Ireland and Portugal in July. August and September will see the team participating in the Castle Lager Rugby Championship, with fixtures planned against Australia, New Zealand, and Argentina.

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus expressed his satisfaction with the foundation laid during the camp, highlighting the importance of in-person interaction. He emphasized the enthusiasm among coaches to commence the season and welcomed the addition of new staff members.

Erasmus also conveyed his excitement about engaging with players in the alignment camps, emphasizing the significance of setting the groundwork for the season ahead. He stressed the team’s commitment to evolving and remaining competitive in the rapidly progressing landscape of international rugby.

As the Springboks gear up for another challenging season, the alignment camp serves as a crucial step in fostering cohesion and readiness among coaches and players alike.