Former England international David Ribbans could be on the verge of one of the most talked-about nationality switches in modern rugby. The powerful lock, who was born in South Africa, is close to becoming eligible to represent the Springboks at the Rugby World Cup 2027.
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After completing World Rugby’s required three-year stand-down period. Ribbans, now 30, has not played for England since the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Under current eligibility rules, a player can switch national teams if they were born in another country and have not represented their adopted nation for three years.
That waiting period is nearly over for Ribbans, meaning he could soon be free to pull on the green and gold of South Africa instead of England’s red rose. The former Northampton Saints forward, who now plays his club rugby for Toulon in France’s Top 14, has been asked repeatedly about the possibility of representing the Springboks.
Since moving to France, speculation has followed him, particularly given his strong performances in one of the toughest leagues in the world. Ribbon has admitted that the question of playing for South Africa has been raised many times. But he has also made it clear that the situation is not straightforward emotionally.
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Ribbans Balances Loyalty and Rugby World Cup Ambition
While he has not ruled out the idea of representing his birth nation, he has suggested that the decision would not be simple. Ribbans has spoken about his pride in playing for England and indicated that he would still love to add to his England caps if given the opportunity.
At the same time, he understands that international rugby careers can be unpredictable. And the chance to compete at a World Cup is something few players would easily dismiss. From a rugby perspective, the timing could work in his favour.
South Africa’s legendary lock Eben Etzebeth has long been regarded as one of the best second-row forwards in the world. However, there have been signs that the physical toll of years at the highest level may be catching up with him.
Recent concussion issues, recurring injuries, and longer recovery periods have sparked discussions about succession planning within the Springbok squad. With the next Rugby World Cup cycle building toward 2027, South Africa may be looking to refresh their pack with new energy and depth.
Ribbans, known for his physical presence, athleticism, and work rate, would offer exactly that. His experience in English Premiership rugby and now in France’s Top 14 has added further polish to his game, making him a realistic option if he chooses to switch allegiance.
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Rugby World Cup Final: World Rugby Order Shifts After Key Results
Ribbans is not the only player linked with a potential international change. Manu Tuilagi, who has earned 60 caps for England, has also been mentioned in discussions about switching to represent Samoa, the country of his birth.
Now 34, Tuilagi has indicated that any decision would depend on whether he still feels capable of competing at the highest level by the time the next World Cup arrives. Meanwhile, the international rugby landscape continues to shift, as reflected in the latest world rankings.
Ireland has climbed two places to third after an impressive 42-21 victory over England away from home. Scotland has also risen two spots, moving from ninth to seventh following their 26-23 win in Cardiff.
England’s heavy defeat marked one of their worst home losses and saw them slip to fifth in the rankings. France, despite securing a 33-8 victory over Italy, dropped to fourth after being overtaken by Ireland. Hosts of the Rugby World Cup 2027, Australia, have fallen to eighth following Scotland’s recent success, while Fiji now sits ninth.
Wales have also slipped, dropping to 12th after their rating declined. Elsewhere in Europe, Switzerland enjoyed a notable 29-23 victory over the Netherlands in Rugby Europe’s Men’s Championship, swapping places in the rankings to move up to 27th.
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