Cheslin Kolbe Scores Big at SA Rugby Awards

Cheslin Kolbe has been named Rugby Player of the Year for 2024 at the SA Rugby Awards.

The 31-year-old Springbok star became the first backline player since Jean de Villiers in 2013 to win the prestigious award.

Kolbe, who played a crucial role in the Springboks’ dominant season, topped a shortlist featuring Eben Etzebeth, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Damian de Allende and Ox Nche.

His stellar performances helped the Boks secure 11 wins in 13 Tests, reclaim the Rugby Championship and Freedom Cup, and defeat the All Blacks twice.

He was unable to attend the awards ceremony in Cape Town, Western Cape on Thursday evening, 13 March, due to club commitments in Japan, but Kolbe’s father, Andrew, accepted the award on his behalf.

Reflecting on his achievement, the two-time World Cup winger credited his teammates and coaches in a video interview: “Yes, my name is on it, but 2024 was a team effort. I want to thank the coaches and my teammates for believing in me.”

South African Rugby Union President, Mark Alexander, hailed Kolbe’s impact: “He truly embodies the spirit of excellence that defines South African rugby.”

Additionally, the awards night celebrated Rassie Erasmus as Coach of the Year and the Springboks as Team of the Year.

With an exciting 2025 Test season ahead, Kolbe remains focused on improving: “For me, it’s about being a better player in 2025 than [I was] last season.”

Image Credit: Source