Steven Kitshoff and Faf de Klerk. Image via Instagram @fafster09
Springboks prop Kitshoff names his rugby heroes
It’s not who you think it is!
Steven Kitshoff and Faf de Klerk. Image via Instagram @fafster09
Steven Kitshoff has two special Springboks rugby heroes and they’re iconic names of the sport.
KITSHOFF IDOLISED SPRINGBOKS ICON SCHALK BURGER
Steven Kitshoff mentioned Schalk Burger and Os du Randt as his rugby heroes growing up, in a 2022 interview with Times Live. Malcolm Marx, meanwhile, always looked up to fellow hooker John Smit.
SIYA KOLISI EARNS TIME MAGAZINE RECOGNITION AFTER MAKING HISTORY
Siyamthanda Kolisi etched his name into the record books last year when he became only the second man to captain his country to back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs.
This is what he said in an Instagram caption to address this honour:
“Being named to the 2024 #TIME100 list is an incredible honour, one that deeply humbles me. It’s a profound responsibility to stand alongside individuals who dedicate their lives to enriching others. This recognition isn’t just for me; it reflects the numerous individuals and communities who have poured into me and shaped me to be the person I am and am becoming. I’m grateful to @time for highlighting the importance of compassion and service in our world. I look forward to getting my hands on the TIME100 issue when it’s released on Friday.”
FAF DE KLERK FANCIES A RIBEYE STEAK
In the same interview with TimesLive last year, Faf de Klerk was quizzed on what he would select as his final meal. “Wagyu rib eye steak with lamb chops, braaibroodjie, potato salad and a mealie,” was his answer. It’s not his favourite food though, that honour belongs to the schnitzel. Whether or not he’d be donning a Speedo while being fed that last glorious dish is up for debate. In terms of his heroes, well those were Percy Montgomery and Breyton Paulse.
ETZEBETH STANDS ALONE AMONG CURRENT BOK CROP
No current South African rugby player boasts more caps than legendary lock forward Eben Etzebeth. The giant back-row star has appeared 119 times in the fabled green & gold; only Bryan Habana (124) and Victor Matfield (127) have represented South Africa more.
Who was your rugby hero when you were a kid? Let us know in the comments section below.
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