Springbok hopeful finds another new club
Juarno Augustus is now 26 years old, but with youth still on his side, he has made it clear that he will not give up on his Springbok dream.
Ever since scoring the most tries (7) at the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in 2017, earning him the Player of the Tournament title, he has been viewed as a future Springbok. However, his form and fitness has been rather erratic over the last few years, and ultimately he has battled to take that next step up.
Could Juarno Augustus finally be on the path to Springbok honours?
Over the last couple of seasons, the powerful loose forward has truly revived his career at the Northampton Saints, helping the club become one of the real forces to be reckoned with in the English Premiership.
However, he has now opted to take up a three-year deal with Irish club Ulster as he aims to continue elevating his game.
“If I can be the best player I can be, I think I can get a foot in the door (with the Springboks),” said Augustus in a recent interview with Planet Rugby. “It is my dream to play for the Springboks. But I have had no chats with the (South Africa) coaches. It’s about letting my rugby do the talking for me.”
Currently in top form, there is no doubt that Juarno Augustus could offer a dynamic, physical, ball-carrying addition to the Springboks’ rich back-row resources. But with Jasper Wiese, Elrigh Louw and now Cameron Hanekom all offering options at No 8, he will need to make the most of his time with Ulster if he hopes to force his way into the reckoning.
“I love playing for Saints, and living in Northampton, so this was a very difficult decision for me to make,” Augustus commented when discussing the upcoming move.
“The players, staff and supporters have really made the club feel like home for my partner Kaylene and I during my four seasons here, and we have made amazing memories which will stay with me forever – especially lifting the Premiership trophy last season, which was a dream come true.
“Saints will always have a very special place in my heart, and while next summer is the right time for me to move on, I will give absolutely everything I can to the team for the rest of the season to try to finish my time here with more success and silverware.”
Do you think this is a good move for the talented loose forward?
Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news and views.
