Ox Nche on Springboks Consistency, Depth Building for 2027, and Set-Piece Challenge Against Argentina
Springboks' Ox Nche discusses team depth for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, his role in the squad, and the set-piece challenge against Argentina. He also addresses rumors of a potential move to France.
Image Credits: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images/Getty Images
Ox Nche has been a prominent name in the matchday 23 throughout the season for the Springboks.
This perhaps came after Steven Kitshoff was unfortunately ruled out for most of the domestic season prior to the international season.
This weekend the Springboks will be facing Argentina, a side known to be physical and provide a presence in the set-piece battle. He has also been linked with a move to France.
Number 1 Loosehead
"With us, especially in our setup there is number 1 ranked player. Roles change and I have enjoyed being out there consistently. I always try to contribute as much as I can to the team and it’s amazing to be backed by coach Rassie [Erasmus] to do the job. Unfortunately, Steven [Kitshoff] is still out but it’s been really exciting,” Nche told SportsBoom.com.
Building depth for 2027 Rugby World Cup
Rassie Erasmus indicated before the 2024 international season; he will be looking to build squad depth by bringing in youngsters who can perform at the highest level. Nche Provides some insight on how the new players have fared thus far in the season.
"In my opinion, its going well. With the number of guys that have received caps and continue to do so. It’s just unfortunate there are players who were meant to be in the squad got but as you can see with guys like Ruan [Nortje] here its testament to the number of locks that have been injured and he is here. Ruan has lifted the whole season, and guys are getting their chance. Everyone is in a good space and doing whatever they can for the team."
"I feel like it’s not a once off when players get an opportunity and happy to play one game for the Springboks, the guys will keep on knocking at the door. Even now, we are a squad of 28 [in Argentina] and there are guys playing at home and getting ready to play in the URC [United Rugby Championship] and will still be knocking on the door. We can even see in the Currie Cup how the players have played; it’s been really amazing and healthy for us."
Ox potential move to France?
Nche was reportedly moving to France, and he gave his thoughts on the rumours.
"For me, I haven't heard anything from any French club. I asked my agent; I saw the articles that came out. I asked my agent, and he said he will take of everything. As far as I know, I haven't heard anything from them.”
There hasn't been an offer or discussion. it’s probably people who are trying to get people to read their journals and stuff. For me, as its not written on as I am happy to be staying in South Africa.
Ox Nche
Message from the set-piece coaches vs Argentina
Los Pumas have enjoyed an unpredictable run, beating the All Blacks in New Zealand, a massive win against Australia at home, and now a narrow win against the unbeaten Springboks.
"The message was to expect the unexpected, especially how they have gone in the set-piece battles. They are not a one-dimensional side, just like the lineouts they will try many things, they can maul from the top and back of the lineout. Just judging from the team they have played against; they will be a tough team to play against. We can see they have put in the work in the set-piece."
"The scrums, there are lot of guys for them who have played at the highest level for a long time in different leagues all over Europe. They do work pretty well together and have a good system going for them. The challenge for us is finding solutions together."
Nathan has over a decade of knowledge and experience, both as a former professional sportsperson and journalist. Nathan, a former radio sports presenter and producer is an award-winning community radio sports producer/presenter.