The annual Craven Week under-18 rugby tournament begins on 6 July in Gqeberha, but its traditional role as the main scouting event has changed. Former player Ronnie Cooke says most talent identification now happens earlier through other platforms. South African Rugby Union official Ian Schwartz maintains it remains a key national checkpoint.
Craven Week, first held in 1964, has produced more than 200 Springboks including Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi and Schalk Burger. It forms part of the South African Rugby Union Youth Weeks programme and features provincial teams.
Ronnie Cooke, now a sports agent, said scouting largely occurs before the event. "No one goes to Craven Week any more to scout players," he told Daily Maverick. "Players have signed their contracts; universities have offered bursaries to players already."
Ian Schwartz, SARU general manager of participation and development, described the tournament as one entry point in a five-year talent identification process. SuperSport Schools has increased visibility with 1.4 million app users by early 2026, shifting attention to events such as Wildeklawer.
Schools now invest an average of R6 million annually in first-team programmes. This year’s Craven Week starts at Grey High School in Gqeberha.