International eligibility: from England to Italy, who are the South African players who could change national team in 2026

As the cycle leading to the 2027 World Cup approaches, the issue of international eligibility is once again central to European rugby. Several South African players, who have moved abroad for years, are in fact maturing the requirements to represent new national teams, opening up interesting scenarios also for Italy, which is carefully monitoring Rhyno Smith’s situation.

Among the most discussed cases is that of Benhard Janse van Rensburg. The Bristol Bears centre, already a star at youth level with the Junior Springboks, has obtained a waiver from World Rugby which will allow him to become eligible for England from 2026.

A profile that makes physicality his strong point, expert and accustomed to the rhythms of Prem Rugby, which could be included in Steve Borthwick’s assessments, even if his possible call-up has already sparked debate within the English environment.

Less controversial, but equally discussed, is the situation of Tyrone Green: the Harlequins fullback will complete his residency period in 2026 and remains a name monitored by the RFU. While still dreaming of the Springboks shirt, Green has always reiterated that he does not consider England a “second choice”.

Read also: Warren Gatland: “I was a consultant to international referees, but now I’m thinking about the Rugby World Cup”

Can Rhyno Smith wear the blue shirt?

The scenario that most closely concerns Italian rugby, however, is that of Rhyno Smith. The South African media (especially sarugbymag.co.za) have also included his name among the players who could potentially wear the shirt of another national team. The Benetton Rugby fullback, one of the most consistent and decisive men of the green and whites in recent seasons, will complete the five years of residency necessary to become eligible for Italy in July 2026. A move which, if successful, could offer the Italian staff a further option in view of the 2027 World Cup.

However, Smith’s path is not automatic. The South African in fact wore the Blitzboks shirt in the Seven circuit in 2018, an element that requires specific authorization from World Rugby in order to be eligible again at Test rugby level. Not having Italian origins, his situation will therefore have to be assessed through channels other than the canonical ones.

“The Italian FA hasn’t invited me to training camps or anything like that yet, but we’ve already talked about my suitability and how we can make things work,” Smith said after extending his contract with Benetton until 2028. The fullback already a force at the Sharks and Cheethas admits that his hopes of playing at the next World Cup will ultimately depend on Italy coach Gonzalo Quesada. “At 34 in 2027, who knows? It depends on whether the coach wants me. All I can do is continue to play well.”

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