Ex-England star’s Bok eligibility draws near

Former England lock David Ribbans will become eligible to represent South Africa on October 27 after completing his mandatory three-year international stand-down period. The 31-year-old Toulon forward, who was born in Somerset West, last played for England against Argentina in the 2023 World Cup third-place playoff. Under World Rugby's eligibility regulations, players may switch nations via birth, citizenship, or ancestry following a three-year absence from international rugby.

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus previously confirmed interest in the former Northampton Saints forward as an option ahead of the 2027 World Cup. However, Ribbans previously voiced hesitations regarding switching allegiances, stating in April 2025 that although he would "never say never," playing for two countries felt strange to him and might not be right toward England.