(Published - 12 September 2019)

Things are just getting better for former UWC rugby star and rising Springbok sensation Herschel Jantjies - he was called up to represent the Barbarians team in their clash against Fiji later in the year.

Jantjies, who has had a sterling Super Rugby season with Stormers, was named alongside veteran Springbok Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira for the clash that is scheduled for 16 November. The Barbarians, nicknamed the Baa-Baas, is an invitational rugby union team based in Britain, and membership is by invitation only.

The Stellebosch-born Jantjies registered at UWC in 2017, however he did not complete his course as his rugby commitments with the Western Province team interfered with his classes.

“He decided to focus on his rugby career, but always expressed his desire to complete his studies at some point,” said UWC rugby administrator, Elmien Cloete.

Jantjes played a key role in the UWC team which won the Varsity Shield tournament. The team was promoted to the Varsity Cup.

He earned his first cap for the Springboks against the Wallabies and put on an impressive display, scoring twice and defending exceptionally. He also played against the All Blacks and scored a crucial try in the final moments of the game that ended in a draw. This helped the Springboks clinch their first Rugby Championship title.

Cloete said UWC Sport is ecstatic about Jantjies’ inclusion - especially since he was recruited by the late Chester Williams who “always knew that Herschelle was destined for the big leagues”.

“Herschel is not only a fantastic rugby player, but one of the most humble and polite professional players I’ve ever met. We could not be happier with his achievements and are indeed honoured that he was one of us at some stage. We wish him all the best with the road ahead. Dynamite definitely comes in small packages,” said Cloete.