Springboks speedster Cheslin Kolbe became the first backline player since 2013 to take the prestigious SA Rugby Men’s Player of the Year title at a glittering SA Rugby Awards ceremony at the International Convention Centre in Cape Town this week, while Nadine Roos took home the top women’s award for a second time.
Kolbe’s incredible achievements throughout the 2024 season set him apart from an impressive field of nominees, which included previous winners Eben Etzebeth and Pieter-Steph du Toit, as well as Damian De Allende and Ox Nche, to claim the top prize.
His contributions played a pivotal role in the Springboks’ triumphant season, which saw the team secure 11 victories in 13 Tests and recapture the Castle Lager Rugby Championship and Freedom Cup titles.
Kolbe’s electrifying pace and skill on the field were key to these successes, underscoring his reputation as one of the most dynamic players in world rugby.
As a result, the Springboks and Rassie Erasmus were named Team and Coach of the Year respectively.
The versatile Roos was honoured as SA Rugby Women’s Player of the Year for the second time in three years after also taking the award in 2022.
Emerging star Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu received the Young Player of the Year award, recognising his breakthrough season; Jurenzo Julius was named Junior Springbok Player of the Year for his impressive form for the SA U20s before making a rapid rise in senior rugby; and Selvyn Davids was named the Springbok Sevens Player of the Year, playing a key role as they won bronze at the Olympic Games in Paris.
Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby, hailed Kolbe’s achievement as a milestone for backline players, while he also praised the contributions of all the other award winners.
“Cheslin’s recognition is a testament to his skill, dedication, and impact on the field,” Alexander told the SA Rugby website.
“He embodies the spirit of excellence that defines SA rugby. We are blessed with incredible talent.” – www.sarugby.co.za.
