Three veteran Springboks could reportedly be reunited in an unexpected move to the Boland Cavaliers.
Pieter-Steph du Toit and Damian de Allende are reportedly weighing up moves to the Winelands-based union, with veteran fullback Willie le Roux potentially joining them.
According to reports, Du Toit and Allende are open to playing for Boland, coached by Hawies Fourie, after spending several seasons in Japan’s Rugby League One competition.
If the proposed moves materialise, it would represent a major recruitment coup for the Cavaliers.
Du Toit confirms return to South Africa
Du Toit, 34, confirmed on Friday that he would return to South Africa following five seasons with Japanese club Toyota Verblitz.
The two-time World Rugby Player of the Year was a key member of the Springboks’ victorious 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup campaigns.
His return could also provide a significant boost for the Stormers, with the possibility of making him available to coach John Dobson.
A potential move to Japan for injured loose forward Marcel Theunissen could create an opportunity for Du Toit to feature for the Cape side in the short term.
De Allende could link up with the Bulls
De Allende, also 34, is reportedly considering a return home after his time in Japan.
The powerful centre could potentially become available to the Bulls, although his future arrangements remain uncertain.
The reported proposal could allow both players to represent Boland in the SA Cup while also turning out for bigger franchises in the United Rugby Championship (URC).
Could Willie le Roux join the Springbok duo?
The third name reportedly in the frame is 37-year-old Le Roux.
The experienced fullback’s contract with the Bulls is coming to an end, potentially opening the door to another move.
Like Du Toit and De Allende, Le Roux was part of the Springboks’ back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023.
His experience and leadership would be a significant addition to Boland.
Western Cape return on the cards?
Du Toit, De Allende and Le Roux all have strong ties to the Western Cape and are keen to settle back home with their families.
A Boland arrangement could offer an opportunity to return to the region while continuing to play at a competitive level through partnerships with bigger South African franchises.
However, the reported moves remain unconfirmed, and the precise playing arrangements have yet to be finalised.
Should the trio arrive in the Winelands, Boland could boast an extraordinary collection of Springbok experience.
For now, South African rugby supporters will be watching closely to see whether this potential reunion becomes reality.
The trio boast an incredible 308 Tests between them: De Allende 104, Du Toit 103 and Le Roux 101.
