Like most positions in Springboks rugby, South Africa is blessed with heaps of talent at scrumhalf – but Cobus Reinach still believes he can make it to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Reinach was the first-choice number nine in 2025, but he will turn 36 in February.
That means by the 2027 quadrennial showpiece, he will be a couple of months away from turning 38.
Though it appears that Faf de Klerk has fallen down the pecking order and his Springbok future looking rather gloomy, the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup winner is a year younger than Reinach.
Cobus Reinach’s Journey: Balancing Recovery, Goals, and Milestones with the Springboks and Stormers
Then there are the youngsters waiting in the wings, namely Grant Williams (29), Morne van den Berg (28), and Jaden Hendrikse (25).
“You’ve got to look after yourself with recovery, conditioning, and being honest with your body; rugby doesn’t stop,” Reinach told SportsBoom.co.za.
“I still have massive goals. I want to contribute, and I would be lying if I said I’m not thinking about the 2027 World Cup.”
Reinach made his debut for the Springboks way back in 2014, but has found it difficult to cement his place in the Springbok side throughout his career simply because of the depth of talent.
During South Africa’s November tour, though, Reinach was finally able to celebrate his 50-cap milestone against Wales in the Springboks’ final match of their European tour.
“It’s always special just to put on the Springbok jersey,” said Reinach at the time.
“If it’s cap one or cap 140 odd like Eben (Etzebeth), it’s special. But playing my 50th Test was definitely great.”
For now, though, it’s about keeping his head down and putting in the work for the Stormers, explains Reinach.
“I still have those goals, but for now, it is contributing to the DHL Stormers.”
@Michael_Sherman
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