South African prop Nick Schonert is set to make his Test debut at the age of 34.
Schonert, who currently plays for Vannes in France’s Pro D2, is eligible to represent Germany, as both of his father’s parents were born there.
The tighthead told RugbyPass he has put his name forward for selection ahead of the 2026 Rugby Europe Championship.
“I am a bit of German, bit of English, bit of South African, and if you dig even deeper, there is a bit of Scottish on my Mum’s side as well,” Schonert explained.
“When I signed for Vannes I didn’t even think about it, but when I arrived [Vannes teammate] Eric Marks [who plays for Germany] was like, ‘You’re German, right, would you ever be interested?’
“I’ve done all I have ever wanted to do and rugby has been the most incredible job I have ever have. But chatting with Eric, he told me the whole spiel about what Germany has gone through the last few years – how they had a bit of a run and now they’re in a bit of a slump.
“I know they have the likes of [former Bok prop] BJ Botha, who in my opinion was one of the best technical scrummagers, working with them, he’s the scrum coach. They are putting a lot of effort into it.”
The former Sharks, Griquas and Cheetahs prop – who earned 133 caps for the Worcester Warriors and 61 for the Sale Sharks after leaving South Africa – stressed that the decision was not driven by ambition or long-term goals.
“It’s not that Germany need a 34-year-old tighthead with a dodgy back to come and help them, and I am not trying to win the Webb Ellis Cup with them. But if I can help to steady the ship and add a bit experience, I am happy to play my part.”
Schonert’s only previous taste of international rugby came in 2011, when he represented the Junior Boks alongside Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth and Bongi Mbonambi.
Photo: Stu Forster/Getty Images
