England forward can swap nations and play for Springboks at next World Cup
Yesterday at 11:14 AM
South African-born lock David Ribbans has shut down speculation about a potential switch to the Springboks, admitting that the idea feels “strange” to him.
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Ribbans, 28, was born in Somerset West, South Africa, and came through the ranks at Western Province before moving to England in 2017 to join Northampton Saints.
His strong performances earned him a call-up to the England squad, and he went on to earn five caps under Eddie Jones and Steve Borthwick. Now playing for Toulon in France, Ribbans has reflected on his international future.
“England became my second home”
Speaking to the Telegraph, Ribbans revealed his mixed emotions about potentially switching allegiance to the country of his birth.
"Would I consider it? You never say never with these things and South Africa was my home originally, but England has become my second home and I was super proud to play for them,” he said. “I find it a bit strange when players play for two countries.”
He clarified that his stance wasn't a dig at South Africa but rather a personal belief: "This is no slight on the Springboks, who are an amazing team. It's just my view and I'm a bit stubborn in it. I'd put aside the potential glory for that because it wouldn't be right towards England."
Frustration with England experience
Ribbans also opened up about his time in the England camp, admitting that he struggled to make a real impact on the Test scene.
"I had been in and out, making squads but not getting enough caps, attending broader training camps without getting a shot. When Steve took over, to be honest, it was more of the same. He had worked with the Leicester boys and the Saracens boys, so they had a nudge on me.
"It was great that he took me to the World Cup when he knew I was coming here, but I was sat on the sidelines for it. Ultimately, in terms of playing, I don't look back that fondly on it. I wanted to be more involved and thought I could kick on, but it wasn't to be."
Now fully focused on his club career with Toulon, Ribbans looks unlikely to chase a Springboks call-up, despite the new World Rugby eligibility laws allowing players to switch nations after a three-year stand-down period. For him, the England chapter may not have been everything he hoped for, but it remains a proud part of his journey.
Alun Wyn Jones and Owen Farrell included on list of worst British & Irish Lions
The British & Irish Lions is the pinnacle of a player’s career – a chance to prove yourself against the very best. But not everyone rises to the occasion.
While some have cemented their legacies in red jerseys, others have left fans wondering how they even made the squad.
From unfortunate injuries to underwhelming performances, we take a look at some of the worst Lions players across different tours, with big names like Owen Farrell and Alun Wyn Jones making the cut.
2021 tour: Owen Farrell – The forgotten playmaker
Owen Farrell, one of the most recognisable and influential players in modern rugby, endured a tour to forget in South Africa. Despite his vast experience and reputation as a leader, Farrell was named by SA Rugby Mag as the worst-performing Lion on the tour.
Initially expected to play a key role, he started three games and featured off the bench in the first two Tests.
However, as the series decider loomed, head coach Warren Gatland made a brutal call – dropping Farrell from the matchday 23 entirely. It was a stark fall from grace for a player who was once considered indispensable.
WIN A TRIP TO THE 2025 LIONS:
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES
- 2 x Return flight tickets from the UK to Australia
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 2nd Test in Melbourne
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 3rd Test in Sydney
- 4 x Night's accommodation in Melbourne with bed & breakfast (24-27 July)
- 7 x Night's accommodation in Sydney with bed & breakfast (28 July-3 Aug)
- 2 x Flight tickets Melbourne to Sydney including airport hotel group transfers
- 2 x Tickets to watch a private function with Lions legends
- Additional events to be announced
The winner will be part of the Lions supporters group with tour representatives on hand to oversee everything.
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
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