Felix Jones Returns to the Springboks as Part of 2027 World Cup Preparations

The Springboks are delighted to welcome Felix Jones back into the fold, following his return after the 2023 Rugby World Cup. While the team understood Jones’ previous decision to relocate to the United Kingdom to be closer to his family, the opportunity to bring him back ahead of the 2027 World Cup in Australia was too good to pass up.

Happy to be back! Felix Jones: “SA rugby holds a special place in my heart and having the opportunity to be involved again with this world-class team that is working towards the 2027 RWC, is something I’m very appreciative of” 💚💛#ForeverGreenForeverGold #Springboks

— Springboks (@Springboks) March 5, 2025

Springbok head coach, Rassie Erasmus, explained that Jones’ departure to England was not part of any long-term plan. “It was not something we expected,” Erasmus said, emphasizing that moving his family was never meant to be a temporary arrangement. “But we are pleased to have him back.”

Jones, who will work alongside the Springboks’ coaching team, including new members such as attack coach Tony Brown and defense coach Jerry Flannery, doesn’t have a set title. His primary role will be to contribute to the overall growth of the team as they work towards the 2027 World Cup.

“There are no egos in our coaching team,” Erasmus said, noting how the coaching staff works collaboratively to improve the team. “We all share responsibilities, and it’s just Daan Human who works independently.”

#Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus on the 15 matches and tough schedule awaiting the national side this season pic.twitter.com/D9k3gFTuxu

— Leighton Koopman (@Leighton_K) March 5, 2025

Jones, who is already in South Africa, visited the Sharks alongside Flannery ahead of next week’s alignment camp. The Springboks are preparing for their first steps towards the 2025 season, with a camp set to take place in Cape Town, bringing together 56 players.

Reflecting on his return to South African rugby, Jones expressed his excitement. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be involved with this world-class team again,” he said. “I look forward to contributing to the culture and success of the Springboks, and I’m excited to help the team grow further.”

The Springboks will play 15 Tests this year, with two additional matches to be confirmed. Erasmus is focused on expanding the player pool while ensuring the team remains competitive for the 2027 World Cup.

“We need to maintain a good ranking this year for the World Cup draw,” Erasmus said, with the team currently ranked number one in the world. “We’ll be testing new players while still aiming to win.”

✅- Barbarians.
⌛- Two more Test matches to be announced.

The Springboks are ready to make 2025 their “toughest year” yet 😤🏉

— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) March 5, 2025

Springbok Matches for 2025:

• 28 June: Barbarians, TBC
• 5 July: Italy, Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
• 12 July: Italy, Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Gqeberha
• 19 July: Georgia, Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit
• 16 August: Australia, Ellis Park, Johannesburg
• 23 August: Australia, DHL Stadium, Cape Town
• 6 September: New Zealand, Eden Park, Auckland
• 13 September: New Zealand, Sky Stadium, Wellington
• 27 September: Argentina, Kings Park, Durban
• 4 October: Argentina, Twickenham, London
• 8 November: France, Stade de France, Paris
• 15 November: Italy, Allianz Stadium, Turin
• 22 November: Ireland, Aviva Stadium, Dublin
• 29 November: Wales, Cardiff

Two additional Tests to be confirmed by SA Rugby.

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com