The Springboks' 2026 lineup is set to be a fascinating mix of experience and fresh talent, with Victor Matfield's prediction of a 'big surprise' player taking center stage. Matfield, a legendary figure in South African rugby, has his eyes on one man: JJ van der Mescht.
Van der Mescht, a towering 145kg lock, has been a revelation since his move to Northampton Saints in 2025. His impressive performances in the PREM have not gone unnoticed, earning him a spot in the Springboks' alignment camp. Matfield, who has seen the player's potential since his schoolboy days, believes Van der Mescht could be the wildcard that Rassie Erasmus is looking for.
"JJ van der Mescht from Northampton, 145kgs, has got a call-up," Matfield said. "He went over to France as a youngster, went up to about 170kgs at some stage playing for Stade Francais. I saw him play as a youngster and at schoolboy level he was just unbelievable. He’s big but he’s fast, he’s got great skills and if you think of a guy like RG Snyman is out for the year, someone like him can maybe come in and play off the bench."
Matfield's enthusiasm for Van der Mescht is not just about his physical attributes. He highlights the player's speed, skills, and ability to offload and tackle, making him a versatile asset. The analyst's faith in Van der Mescht's potential is further bolstered by the player's recent form in the PREM, where he has been a standout performer for Northampton.
However, Matfield's insights go beyond individual players. He discusses the broader implications of the Springboks' alignment camp, noting the exclusion of some older players like Willie le Roux. He believes that Erasmus is making way for new talent while keeping an eye on the future. "There are a few guys that are getting a bit older, there are young new guys coming through," Matfield said. "I think a guy like Willie le Roux, if he gets a chance, knows exactly how they want to play and what they want to do."
The article concludes with a sense of anticipation, as the Springboks' 2026 plans begin to take shape. Matfield's prediction of a 'big surprise' player adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, leaving readers curious about the impact of Van der Mescht and other potential newcomers on the team's future success.
