Jump to Main ContentJump to Primary Navigation
leicestertigers.comMattioli Woods Welford RoadContact UsTopps Tiles
Rugby News

Wiese and Van Staden included in 'Boks squad

Tigers back-rower Jasper Wiese and incoming Leicester player Marco Van Staden have been included in the South Africa Springboks squad for their upcoming series against the British and Irish Lions.

The pair are uncapped at international level and in line for Test debuts in the 2021 series.

Wiese joined Tigers ahead of the 2020/21 campaign and has made 18 senior appearances for the club since debuting in Round 1 of the Gallagher Premiership season.

The 25-year-old has been a standout during his first season at the club, which has resulted in back-to-back nominations for Premiership Player of the Month awards and a nomination for the club's Player of the Season.

In March, four months in to his first season, Wiese extended his contract with the club.

Van Staden, who the club announced would join Leicester Tigers ahead of the 2021/22 season, is currently playing for the Bulls in the Rainbow Cup.

The back-rower has previously been included in South African squads but is yet to make his Test debut for the World Champion Springboks.

Speaking about the inclusion of Wiese, Tigers Head Coach Steve Borthwick said: "It is great news for both Jasper and Marco, who have earned their selection with impressive performances this season."

"Jasper has had a great impact on our squad, on and off the pitch, since he arrived in Leicester and we're all very proud of him in gaining this reward for his hard work.

"He will gain so much from this experience, which he will bring back to Tigers and add to our environment."

On future-Tiger Van Staden, Borthwick added: "We know the class of Marco and are all very excited about welcoming him to the club next season."

"The experience of being part of the World Champions squad, during a Lions series, is only going to improve him ahead of his move to Leicester Tigers next season

"Both he and Jasper should be very proud of this recognition for their effort, as all of us at Leicester Tigers are of them."

The British and Irish Lions play Japan on June 26 in Edinburgh before travelling to South Africa to commence the 2021 tour.