Cameron Hanekom’s Springbok debut will be a special one for many reasons. Not only is the young player wearing green and gold, but he is also playing against Wales, the country he chose not to represent, despite his eligibility.
CAMERON HANEKOM QUALIFIES TO PLAY FOR WALES
Cameron Hanekom was born and raised in South Africa but qualifies to play for Wales as well. That’s because his maternal grandmother was born and still lives in Wales.
According to World Rugby’s Regulation 8.1, players may represent a country provided they have a “genuine, close, credible and established national link” to it.
This applies to the following.
- The player was born in the country
- A parent or grandparent was born in the country
- The Player has been registered exclusively with a Union or Rugby Body in the country for sixty months immediately preceding the time of playing or
- The Player has completed ten years of cumulative Residence preceding the time of playing.
WHY HE CHOSE THE SPRINGBOKS
Before being called up by Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus earlier this year, Cameron Hanekom had the opportunity to represent Wales.
However, it was never an option for the 22-year-old Bulls star.
When asked if he considered donning red instead of green and gold, he said: “No, never. I’ve always dreamed of becoming a Springbok, and I’ll keep on working as hard as possible to make that dream come true”.
“I’ve never thought of going to Wales or playing for them.”
Cameron has also told WalesOnline that he was happy at his club at the Bulls.
He said: “At the moment, my focus is fully on doing my job here at the Bulls. We’re in one of the toughest competitions, and we’ve set ourselves objectives that require my full attention.”
DID CAMERON HANEKOM MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION TO PLAY FOR THE SPRINGBOKS?
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