The Springboks have had some big stars rise and fall in recent seasons.
The world champs have built a team blessed blessed with talent and with depth built in every position under Rassie Erasmus.
However, the last few years have also seen a few players facing serious bans that have derailed their careers.
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Elton Jantjies, Aphiwe Dyantyi and Sbu Nkosi were all once major stars in the Springboks side.
However, all three men have recently been involved in doping scandals that have tarnished their reputation and ultimately – likely ended their Bok playing days.
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In 2023, former SA Super Rugby Player of the decade, Jantjies was suspended after he tested positive for the banned substance – Clenbutorol.
As a result, the former Bok flyhalf is currently serving a four-year suspension. So, when he returns he will be well past his prime.
Furthermore, the Springboks have well and truly moved on in the flyhalf pecking order, with Sacha-Feinerg MngomeZulu set to peak come the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Meanwhile, the skilful Manie Libbok and experienced Handre Pollard are both likely to compete at the next Rugby World Cup in 2027.
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Meanwhile, former SA Rugby Breakthrough player of the season, Dyantyi is also unlikely to ever represent the men in green and gold.
Unfortunately, he also faced a lengthy ban in 2018 after testing positive for banned substances. He recently returned to action (in 2023). However, he seems a shadow of his former self.
FROM KING TO EXILE
Finally, Nkosi (meaning ‘King’) is in the same boat.
In 2018 and 2019 he was one of the in-form Springboks.
Now, the King on the wing has turned into a Bok exile. He was served a three-year ban in 2024. Meaning, he will only return to the rugby field in 2027, but by then he will 32-years-old and unlikely to consider a rugby comeback.
