A growing number of South African stars plying their trade in Japan - or returning home - could help Rassie Erasmus achieve the unprecedented in 2027.
The 56-strong selection will meet in Cape Town for a three-day camp ahead of a Test season that begins with the July visits to South Africa from Italy and Georgia.
The Hollywoodbets Sharks' injury crisis deepened this week as Springboks Vincent Koch, Jordan Hendrikse, and Makazole Mapimpi were all ruled out ahead of Sunday’s crucial Investec Champions Cup pool match against Bordeaux Bègles at Stade Chaban-Delmas.
Harlequins saw their Investec Champions Cup campaign drift worryingly close to the rocks courtesy of a 33 - 14 defeat at the hands of Toulon.
Lesser known names must step up if the franchise is to fulfil its aim of winning the URC and Champions Cup this season.
Enforced rotation, poor results, and logistical and political issues have raised questions over the viability of South African Champions Cup involvements.
Some players were unlucky to miss out on our men's Top 100 list. Here are 10 who could have made it.