South African to play for England at 2027 Rugby World Cup after Borthwick appeal

According to The Telegraph, the World Rugby regulations committee has ruled that the 28-year-old can switch allegiances from South Africa under “exceptional circumstances,” following a successful appeal by the Rugby Football Union.

Janse van Rensburg is a versatile centre capable of playing both inside and outside positions. Over the past two seasons with Bristol Bears, he has become a key figure in the Premiership, renowned for his powerful carries, sharp footwork, and defensive reliability.

His knack for breaking the line and creating opportunities for teammates has cemented his reputation as a fan favorite.

This decision is historic: Janse van Rensburg will be the first senior international to transfer from one nation to another on residency grounds after being “captured” by another country.

Previous switches, such as those by Duhan van der Merwe and Pierre Schoeman, involved players who were tied to South Africa only at the under-20 level, which did not permanently cap-tie them.

Born in South Africa, Janse van Rensburg began his professional career with the Bulls in Super Rugby, where he quickly gained recognition for both his defensive prowess and attacking flair.

His move to the Premiership has seen him maintain that high standard, establishing him as one of England’s prospective midfield powerhouses.

With this ruling, Steve Borthwick and the England squad can look forward to integrating a highly experienced and impactful centre from autumn 2026, adding both depth and creativity to the national team setup.

Here are three capped internationals who may yet wear the green and gold in Australia.

England international David Ribbans could make one of the most intriguing eligibility switches of the next cycle. Born in South Africa, the towering lock last played for England at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, meaning he will be fully eligible for the Springboks once the three-year stand-down period expires.

Now 30 and plying his trade with Toulon, Ribbans has admitted the Springbok question has followed him ever since he moved to France. While he is flattered by the possibility, he remains torn.

“You never say never… but I find it a bit strange when players play for two countries,” he said, acknowledging both the opportunity and his discomfort with the idea.

He also suggested that switching allegiance might feel disrespectful to England after earning 11 caps: “I’d put aside the potential glory because it wouldn’t be right towards England.”

Still, with Ribbans not shutting the door entirely — and with the Springboks always on the lookout for experienced tight-five options — the possibility is very real.

All Blacks star Mark Tele’a is one of the most destructive wings in world rugby — and surprisingly, he is also eligible for South Africa. Born in Auckland in 1996, Tele’a has a South African father and Samoan mother, which means he could represent either nation once eligible.

While Tele’a remains a frontline All Black, his move to Japan complicates his New Zealand future. NZ Rugby seldom selects overseas-based players, and his most recent cap came in 2024/2025, leaving the timing tight.

If he falls out of favour before 2027, he could become one of the most high-profile players ever to switch to the Springboks.

With South Africa’s penchant for powerful, evasive wings — Cheslin Kolbe, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Makazole Mapimpi — Tele’a would fit the mould perfectly.

Former Scotland prop Oli Kebble is another candidate for a return to South African colours. The 33-year-old loosehead earned 12 caps for Scotland between 2020 and 2022 after starring for the Junior Springboks earlier in his career.

After a stint in France with Oyonnax in Pro D2, Kebble has returned home to join the Stormers as they push for another URC title. If his form in Cape Town impresses, he will be eligible for a Springbok call-up once his stand-down period concludes.

Rugby pedigree runs deep in the Kebble family: he is the son of former Springbok prop Guy Kebble, who played four Tests in the early 1990s, and the nephew of late mining magnate Brett Kebble.

With South Africa continually seeking experienced front-row depth, Kebble could offer valuable backup heading into 2027.