Inside rugby's greatest production factory
On Saturday Wales face South Africa - a nation who never seem to run out of international-class players. Are there lessons the tourists can learn?
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"I think what helps first, obviously, is you need to have a high number of participation."
— Rito Hlungwani , Athlete
"If you want to be a Springbok you have to be defensively solid, have a high work-rate and a good power game."
— Hanyani Shimange , Athlete
Key People
Hanyani Shimange is a former South African Springbok player.
Rassie Erasmus is the head coach of the South Africa national rugby team.
Rito Hlungwani is the forwards coach at the Stormers in South Africa.
Simnikiwe Xabanisa is a South African rugby writer.
Vusi Moyo is a 20-year-old fly-half for the Sharks and a new Springbok player.
Locations
All Coverage
On Saturday Wales face South Africa - a nation who never seem to run out of international-class players. Are there lessons the tourists can learn?
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Is NZ tour of South Africa a new chapter for rugby union?
Is New Zealand's 'Greatest Rivalry' tour of world champions South Africa a signpost to the future of rugby union?
August 17, 2026 at 01:18 PMWales centre James signs new Scarlets contract
Wales centre Eddie James signs a new contract with Scarlets before the start of the 2026-27 season.
August 17, 2026 at 12:00 PMEngland beat Wales to finish top of World Cup pool
England underline their credentials as potential Hockey World Cup winners by sealing top spot in Pool D with an 8-2 win over Wales.
August 19, 2026 at 12:41 PMWales sports minister meets WRU after fans' fears
Wales' sports minister Heledd Fychan meets with Welsh Rugby Union to express fears of split with fans over three-team plan.
August 19, 2026 at 11:38 AMWhat we learned from Wafcon 2026
BBC Sport Africa looks at some of the key takeaways from Wafcon 2026 as Cameroon crowned first-time champions despite not qualifying for the finals.
August 17, 2026 at 04:51 PMStart of England's community rugby season postponed
The Rugby Football Union delays the start of the community rugby season because of concerns about player welfare and pitch conditions affecting much of England.
August 14, 2026 at 04:55 PM