Blitzbokke great Rosko Specman's career takes curious turn to South America

South Africa Sevens legend Rosko Specman will embrace a new adventure in 2026, having signed with the Brazilian Super Rugby Americas franchise Cobras for one season.

The Brazilian side has undergone a few changes: director of rugby Josh Reeves has replaced Emiliano Caffera as head coach, while Specman is the first big signing ahead of the new season.

Born and raised in Grahamstown, Specman was an Eastern Province and Sharks academy talent before staring his career with the Durban franchise.

While he moved to the Pumas in 2013, his legendary career with South Africa Sevens began the following year, becoming one of the Blitzbokke’s most respected and decorated players during his twelve-year tenure.

Specman represented South Africa at the 2016 and 2024 Summer Olympic Games, helping his nation earn bronze in both.

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In 2017 and 2018, the Blitzbokke conquered the World Series, with Specman playing a crucial role in his side’s successful campaigns. In 2017, he was nominated for the World Rugby Men’s Sevens Player of the Year, but the award went to USA’s Perry Baker.

He made the jump back to 15s in 2019, featuring for the Blue Bulls, Cheetahs, Stormers, Griquas and Kaling Black Tigers since then. Specman made his Springbok debut in 2021, playing the full 80 minutes in his side’s 40-9 win over Georgia.

At 36, Specman is now starting a new chapter with the Cobras, who haven’t been able to contest the Super Rugby Americas title since the competition debuted in 2021.

The competition is due to start on February 20 with the Cobras travelling to Argentina to face the Dogos. The Cobras first home game of the season is scheduled for March 8. Specman will arrive in Brazil next week to get ready for the season, but he won’t be the only South African to join the Brazilian franchise, as five more are expected to be announced in the coming days.