The Junior Boks returned to the training ground on Wednesday after enjoying a recovery day on Tuesday, following their 48-21 win over Argentina in Monday’s opening round of the 2026 U20 Rugby Championship staged in Gqeberha.
The team followed their usual recovery protocols, following their physical battle with Los Pumitas, while conducting a thorough review of the opening encounter. Under clear skies on Wednesday, the squad resumed their preparation programme for their next match, which takes place on Sunday at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.
The day began with split gym sessions for the forwards and backs, followed by a lively field session as the team shifted gears in anticipation of the Australian challenge.
Junior Bok forwards coach Lumumba Currie noted that the players had benefited from a deep dive into their first performance: “We had a thorough review, looking at the things we did well and pinpointing the aspects where we need to improve.”
The SA U20s built a commanding 36-0 halftime lead against the Argentinians and eventually led 48-7 before Los Pumitas fought back with two late tries to leave the final score, 48-21.
Looking ahead to Sunday, Currie cautioned that the young Wallabies are a highly skilful, well-coached and competent side, and emphasised that the Junior Boks would need to be clinical to rise to the occasion.
“They have a good recent record against us, having beaten us in the previous two Rugby Championship tournaments before we managed to get the better of them last year at the Junior World Championships in Italy, so we are well aware of their capabilities,” said Currie.
“They showed in their opening match against New Zealand what a massive threat they are, especially with ball in hand and their efficiency at the breakdown. It will make for a very interesting battle on Sunday.”
Meanwhile, Luan van der Berg (prop) has joined the Junior Boks at their Gqeberha base as injury cover for Kai Pratt, who sustained a foot injury during Monday's victory.
The young Vodacom Bulls front-ranker is no stranger to the setup, having been a regular member of the Junior Bok programme this year.
Van der Berg joined the squad overnight and was straight into the thick of things during Wednesday’s field session at the team's Summerstrand training venue.
The Junior Boks team to face Australia on Sunday at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium will be named on Friday afternoon.
