THE FUSE

Still only 18, Kai Pratt and Markus Muller are balancing Junior Bok duties in Georgia while earning a place in the Springbok alignment camp.

Cape Town, South Africa (26 February 2026) – When Rassie Erasmus unveiled his 49-man Springbok alignment camp squad, the list carried its usual mix of World Cup winners and established internationals. But the familiar names were two that underline just how closely South Africa’s next generation is being watched. The players in question are 18-year-olds Kai Pratt and Markus Muller.

Both players are currently on tour in Georgia with the South Africa national under-20 rugby union team, yet they will also form part of the senior national alignment camp in Cape Town in early March. Something Erasmus has consistently mentioned about these camps is that it’s not a Springbok call up yet, but arguably a clear signal that the door is open.

Markus, the Paarl Gimnasium captain, built a formidable reputation during last year’s schools season. Described by many close followers of school rugby as one of the most complete players at that level.

Now contracted to the Stormers, Markus has yet to make his senior debut, but he has already made an impression.

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Kai Pratt offers muscle in the front row. The Oakdale strongman, now signed with the Sharks, made his name as a powerful and uncompromising prop during the schools circuit. Like Markus, he is still at the beginning of his professional journey, balancing Junior Bok responsibilities with the realities of stepping into senior structures.

Five members of last year’s Junior World Championship-winning Under-20 group have been included in the broader alignment group, reinforcing the pathway between age-group success and senior exposure.

For two teenagers currently focused on representing their country at Under-20 level in Georgia, the opportunity to also enter the Springbok environment marks another chapter in their journeys.

Sources: Linked Above

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