Springbok scrumhalf Cobus Reinach celebrated his 50th Test appearance in fitting style on Saturday.
The Boks capped a memorable 2025 season with a record-breaking 73-0 victory over Wales in Cardiff.
Reinach came off the bench as part of the “Nuclear Squad”, with Bok coach Rassie Erasmus bringing on all eight subs in one go in an awesome display of power and squad depth.
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The Boks went unbeaten on an end-of-year tour for the second straight year, and Reinach believes the clean sweep reflects a deeper growth across 2025.
“It’s not just the tour – it’s the whole season,” he explained. “We adapted more than before and grew game by game. Even in setbacks, we learned more than from easy wins. It’s been an unreal season.”
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For Reinach, the milestone was less about numbers and more about the privilege of wearing the green and gold.
“It’s always special just to put on the jersey,” he said. “Whether it’s cap one or cap 140 like Eben [Etzebeth], it’s a privilege. Having done that now 50 times is unreal – something I’ll always be thankful for.”
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Despite constant jokes about his age, Reinach insists the fire still burns as strongly as ever.
“Definitely the [2027] World Cup is still in my sights,” he said with a laugh. “I feel good, lots of energy in the legs – even if the hairline’s going back! The competition in this squad pushes you to be better every day. There’s a lot more in the tank.”
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Reinach believes the team’s unity and purpose continue to underpin their success.
“It’s how tight we are. Whether you hit highs or lows, no one gets thrown out. The boys pick you up, the management pick you up. We work for each other and for the people back home.”
He also delivered a heartfelt message to supporters after huge travelling crowds followed the Boks throughout the tour.
“From London to France to Ireland – thank you,” he said. “We’re all over the world, but we’re one people. We can’t do what we do without you.”
Photo: David Rogers/Getty Images
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