SA Rugby U17 EPD: Names Emerge As WP Schools Still Await Selections

6 November 2026

The initial group of names for the SA Rugby Under-17 Elite Player Development (EPD) high-performance camp has been revealed as provincial unions begin notifying schools. Approximately 55 of the country’s top schoolboy prospects are expected to receive invitations for this national talent identification and development pathway.

A confirmed list of regional invitees highlights strong representation from traditional powerhouse rugby schools across the northern, central, and eastern provinces. However, regional updates remain incomplete as Western Province has not yet shared its allocated player lists with local schools. This administrative delay leaves prospective players from Cape powerhouse programs waiting for confirmation while other unions advance their preparations.

The confirmed group of attendees includes the following provincial schoolboy selections:

Blue Bulls & Limpopo

* Affies: Caleb Pretorius, Dandre Brink, Ethan Williams
* Garsfontein: Andre van Wyk, Ruan Fluks, Ruhan Lombaard
* Middelburg: Lihan de Vaal, Menzi Siyaya
* Pretoria Boys High: Lehakoe Mokoena
* Rustenburg: Ruben van Heerden

KwaZulu-Natal

* DHS: Aobokwe Moeng, Bulelani Cebani, Iglesias Bruiners, Richard Kriel, Sterling Padi, Tanwill Onkers
* Glenwood: Elgenio Oersen, Rosco Williams
* Hilton: Lwango Ntantala
* Kearsney: Clement Makelele, Daniel Miskey, Tunga Griffiths
* Michaelhouse: Langelihle Mthethwa
* Northwood: Nala Shabangu
* Westville: Rorke Stirk

Free State

* Grey College: Frans-Paul Troskie, Kingsley Pule, Niel du Randt

South Western Districts (SWD)

* Outeniqua: Andreas Gouws, Darnell Delport, Lincoln Zietsman, Rufagon Hendricks

Mpumalanga

* Nelspruit: Rhandzu Mkhabela
* Uplands: Siphesihle Marule, Thubelihle Marule