South Africa's Springboks have ended their alignment camp in Cape Town after meetings to prepare for the upcoming international rugby season. Coach Rassie Erasmus received a national honour during the period but could not attend the ceremony due to team duties. The squad is set to face the Barbarians next month before tests against England.
The Springboks completed their second set of alignment meetings in Cape Town on 21 May 2026. These sessions focused on integrating players from around the world and introducing younger athletes to the team's systems.
Erasmus missed the National Orders ceremony at the Union Buildings on 19 May where he was awarded the Order of Ikhamanga in Gold. He noted that the camps help players understand structures and build comfort with coaches despite injuries and virtual participation by some.
The team will meet the Barbarians in Gqeberha on 20 June followed by the first test against England in the Nations Championship in Johannesburg on 4 July. On-field training starts in two weeks as players return from their clubs.
