Veteran Springbok fullback Willie le Roux is on the verge of a major career milestone as he is set to earn his 99th cap for the national team off the bench against Italy on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Loftus Versfeld[3]. Should he feature in this match, he could reach the century mark—becoming only the eighth Springbok centurion—in one of the subsequent two Tests, either at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha or against Georgia in Nelspruit later this month[3][4]. Rassie Erasmus, the Springboks’ head coach, has indicated that the team is planning to ensure Le Roux celebrates his 100th cap on home soil, with a strong likelihood of this milestone being reached during the July Incoming Series[4].
Currently, Le Roux sits at 98 caps and remains a vital figure in the Springbok setup, despite increased competition from younger players for the No. 15 jersey[2]. His versatility has been on display this season, as he has also featured at flyhalf for the Bulls in club rugby[2].
At the club level, Le Roux’s commitment to South African rugby was underlined when he signed a two-year contract extension with the Bulls in April 2025, tying him to the team through June 2027[1]. This deal is expected to see him conclude his playing career in Pretoria, further cementing his status as a stalwart of local rugby. In his own words, “South Africa will always be my home, but my teammates at the Bulls have been a big reason behind the decision to stay,” he said, emphasizing the role of camaraderie and legacy-building among younger players[1].
Le Roux’s leadership and experience have been particularly significant for the Bulls, who reached the United Rugby Championship final in June 2025. He has urged teammates to embrace the pressures of high-stakes matches and to “take chances” rather than retreat into their shells during crucial fixtures[5][7]. His advice draws on his own career, which includes two Rugby World Cup victories and a British & Irish Lions series win with the Springboks[5].
References
- [1] Springbok fullback Willie le Roux signs new Bulls deal – The Star
- [2] Willie Le Roux’s Looks Set to Reach 100 Caps for the Springboks in 2025 – Talking Rugby Union
- [3] Willie le Roux on the brink of 100 caps as Springboks kick off Test season – The Star
- [4] When will Willie le Roux earn his 100th Springbok cap? – Rugga
- [5] Willie le Roux dismisses redemption talk as Bulls motivated by fallen Springbok Cornal Hendricks – Planet Rugby
- [7] Bulls stalwart Willie le Roux urges teammates to seize moment in Croke Park showdown with Leinster – Irish Times