Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has delivered a massive vote of confidence in one of rugby’s most inspiring comeback stories by inviting uncapped tighthead prop Carlü Sadie to the first virtual Springbok alignment camp on Tuesday, 17 March 2026.
The 28-year-old South African powerhouse, currently starring for Bordeaux Bègles in France, joins an elite 21-man overseas-based group featuring 16 Rugby World Cup winners. Sadie’s inclusion highlights a remarkable recovery from a life-threatening neck injury that nearly ended his career just over a year ago.
In January 2025, during a Top 14 clash against Lyon, a collapsed scrum changed everything. Sadie felt a jolt in his neck and later scans revealed cracks in his vertebrae and a snapped ligament.
“After Kitsie’s exit due to the same injury, it’s wonderful to see Carlü back and stronger than ever!” – JAY
Doctors warned he was just 2mm away from permanent paralysis or worse, mirroring the devastating margin that ended the career of fellow prop Steven Kitshoff.
The injury forced Sadie to remain in France for surgery and rehab, which unfortunately cost him a planned move to the Bulls in Pretoria. Bordeaux Bègles stood by the prop during an intensive rehab journey. After over 100 hours of specialized work, Sadie returned to the field in August 2025 leaner and stronger than before.
Erasmus praised the form shown by the tighthead this season, noting that it is pleasing to see him among this experienced group of international players, as reported by SA Rugby.
The virtual camp updates overseas players on the Springbok macroplan and systems ahead of the 2026 season. Sadie is one of only two uncapped players in the squad alongside lock JJ van der Mescht.
His journey from the brink of a career-ending injury to the national setup embodies the grit that defines South African rugby.
Photos via Bordeaux Bègles
