Asenathi Ntlabakanye’s Springbok debut this weekend isn’t just another cap — it’s the result of two years of serious dedication, transformation, and belief in something bigger.
Once tipping the scales at 158kg, the Lions tighthead prop now steps onto the field at Cape Town Stadium 18kg lighter, starting in the front row for South Africa’s first match of the season against the Barbarians. His selection isn’t just about size or scrumming power — it’s about work ethic, discipline, and heart.
A Transformation Fueled by Commitment
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus shared insight into Ntlabakanye’s journey — one that started two years ago when the national team began tracking his performance.
“We saw his work rate was matching some of our best players,” Erasmus said.
Recognising his potential, Erasmus and scrum coach Daan Human put together a plan. With support from the Lions, Ntlabakanye began making regular trips from Johannesburg to Human’s farm near Bloemfontein — a four-hour drive — where he trained intensively during breaks, focusing on conditioning, technique, and understanding the Bok system.
“He would spend a week there at a time,” said Erasmus. “He dropped close to 20kg. That sort of commitment deserves to be rewarded.”
Challenging Stereotypes in Rugby
Erasmus also used Ntlabakanye’s story to highlight that elite rugby is no longer about a ‘one-size-fits-all’ body type.
“People once said Kolbe and Arendse were too small, but they’ve proven they can do everything — tackle, win high balls, beat defenders,” Erasmus said.
The same goes for bigger players like Ntlabakanye, who’ve been unfairly judged by appearance. Erasmus noted that powerhouses like Frans Malherbe aren’t cover models, but they dominate where it counts.
“Asenathi has a great rugby brain, just like Ox Nche and Neethling Fouché. It’s not just about scrums — it’s about feel for the game.”
A Debut Earned the Hard Way
What makes Ntlabakanye’s rise so special is how far he’s come behind the scenes. His quiet grind on a farm far from the spotlight, his willingness to change, and his hunger to wear the green and gold reflect everything the Springboks value: resilience, honesty, and hard work.
“Now let’s see if he can rise to the level of Test rugby,” Erasmus concluded. “That would be something special.”
Whatever happens on debut, Ntlabakanye’s story is already a victory — a powerful reminder that in rugby, hard work still matters.
