World Rugby BLOCK England selection of South African Prem player, RFU appeal
Rugby NewsMonday, 13 October 2025 at 09:51
World Rugby is on the verge of a landmark ruling that could hand Steve Borthwick’s England squad a major boost.
Benhard Janse van Rensburg — the dynamic centre who’s been tearing up the Gallagher Premiership — could soon be eligible to wear the famous red rose.
The South African was in top form again over the weekend as Bristol Bears edged past Exeter Chiefs 18-14.
At the heart of the Bears’ defence, he delivered crunching tackles and relentless carries, driving momentum in attack.
His standout moment came in the 76th minute, producing a crucial jackal turnover that sent Ashton Gate into raptures.
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RFU Pushes Back on Eligibility Block
According to. a report in the Telegraph, The Rugby Football Union isn’t happy being blocked from calling up players like Janse van Rensburg, Hanro Liebenberg, and Jacques Vermeulen.
These stars played for South Africa’s U20s years ago, but the RFU believes that shouldn’t tie them forever to the Springboks.
A paper challenging the current rules goes before World Rugby’s regulations committee in late September — a meeting that could rewrite the eligibility rulebook.
What Does “Captured” Even Mean?
Between 2015-2017, South Africa’s U20s were officially the “next national team,” so playing there locked players out from switching to other countries.
That means Janse van Rensburg and co. are “captured” by South Africa, even though they never played senior rugby there.
Paper Calls for a Fresh Start
The proposal argues these players should be free agents — able to represent other nations without being held back by youth caps.
If World Rugby agrees, England’s coaching team could tap into a new pool of heavyweight talent.
What This Means for England Fans:
Potential game-changer for global rugby: Could shake up how nations recruit and qualify players, leveling the playing field.
More muscle in midfield: Borthwick could bring in Janse van Rensburg and Liebenberg to add serious bite to England’s centre options.
Fresh faces, fresh energy: This opens doors for other players stuck by youth rules to finally get a shot on the international stage.
A bigger, tougher squad: England could build more depth with seasoned Premiership stars who know the game inside out.
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Former Australian rugby star David Pocock and his wife, Emma Palandri, have diversified their wealth through post-rugby careers. Pocock is now an Australian senator, while Palandri co-founded social enterprise projects focusing on sustainable development.
9. Nigel Owens & Barrie Jones-Davies – £2 million
Nigel Owens, Welsh former rugby referee, is a motivational speaker, commentator, and farmer. Together with his partner, Barrie Jones-Davies, they’ve cultivated a modest fortune built on Owens’ post-rugby ventures.
8. Owen Farrell & Georgie Farrell – £3 million
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7. Bryan Habana & Janine Viljoen – £8 million
South African rugby legend Bryan Habana and entrepreneur Janine Viljoen have grown their wealth through sports, media appearances, and business initiatives.
From business ventures and endorsements to philanthropy and royal connections, these power couples exemplify success in every arena.
6. Siya & Rachel Kolisi – £10 million
World Cup-winning captain Siya Kolisi and Rachel Kolisi, co-founder of the Kolisi Foundation, are currently navigating a divorce. Their combined wealth stems from rugby, endorsements, and philanthropic ventures that uplift underprivileged communities.
5. Dan & Honor Carter – £12 million
All Blacks fly-half Dan Carter, three-time World Rugby Player of the Year, and his wife, Honor Carter, former Black Ferns hockey player, have built a fortune through rugby and business ventures.
4. Richie & Gemma McCaw – £15 million
Two-time Rugby World Cup champion Richie McCaw and his wife Gemma McCaw, former Black Sticks hockey player, have amassed wealth through sports, endorsements, and philanthropic work.
3. Jonny Wilkinson & Shelley Jenkins – £20 million
England hero Jonny Wilkinson and his wife Shelley Jenkins have grown their fortune post-retirement through media appearances, business ventures, and strategic endorsements.
2. Sonny Bill & Alana Williams – £22 million
Versatile athlete Sonny Bill Williams and Alana Williams, former model and businesswoman, have diversified wealth from rugby, rugby league, boxing, and endorsements.
1. Mike & Zara Tindall – £25 million
Mike Tindall, former England captain, and Zara Tindall, Olympic equestrian and granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, top the list. Mike enjoys a successful media career, while Zara remains active in equestrian sports and business, making them rugby’s wealthiest power couple.
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