Rassie comments on SA player set to represent France

Jeremy Ward, a former Junior Springboks captain and Sharks midfielder, is set to qualify for France through World Rugby’s regulation criteria governing residency eligibility.

Having made the move to Paris to join Top 14 powerhouse Stade Français in 2022, Ward established himself as an integral member of the team, racking up over 60 appearances.

Under current World Rugby guidelines, players without direct ancestral links to a nation must complete five consecutive years of official residency to qualify for international representation – a period Ward completes in 2027.

Ward’s four appearances for the Junior Springboks at the 2016 U20 Championship could complicate his qualification ambitions, but France hope that they can secure eligibility clearance from World Rugby, as England did with Benhard Janse van Rensburg.

Jeremy Ward firmly on the radar of France

Head coach Fabien Galthié has accelerated the process by calling up the 30-year-old to France’s 42-man training squad ahead of the 2026 Nations Championship.

While World Rugby rules prevent Ward from earning his first test cap until the full five-year milestone is achieved, his surprise inclusion allows the coaching staff to integrate him into Les Bleus’ setup early.

Commenting on this clear pipeline plan, Rassie Erasmus said he welcomed the opportunity that was on the horizon for the 30-year-old.

“To be honest, we never really looked at him and considered him for a Springbok squad in my era. He’s not been on a depth chart.

“Not that he’s bad. I just think we know the players who are playing in South Africa and we track all the other players around the world.

“If he makes it (with France), lekker, we’re happy for him.”

Waiting game

Ward, who previously represented Eastern Province, the Southern Kings and Sharks before joining Stade Français, said he was not getting ahead of himself.

“I think it’s a little difficult, because I was a member of the South African U20 team in 2016. I was therefore capped by the Springboks,” he told RMC Sport.

“England asked World Rugby to adjust that rule slightly. Maybe there is an opportunity.

“And at centre there are quite a few players for France. Many, many good players.

“I’m not going to say that if I change my nationality, I’ll be in the team. That’s not the case, but if the opportunity presents itself, maybe.”

The Springboks will face France in the second Test on their end-of-year tour this Friday.