In the bustling world of South African rugby, Asenathi Ntlabakanye has emerged as a towering figure, both literally and metaphorically. Standing at an imposing 153 kg, Ntlabakanye is an unconventional prop whose sheer size and strength have made him a formidable force on the field.
Ntlabakanye’s journey began in the dusty streets of Soweto, where he discovered his love for rugby at a young age. His talent quickly caught the eye of scouts, and he was soon recruited by the Lions, where he honed his skills and developed into a key player. His performances in the United Rugby Championship have been nothing short of impressive, earning him a reputation as one of the best performing No. 8s in the league.
Despite his success at the franchise level, Ntlabakanye’s ultimate dream has always been to don the Springbok jersey. His dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, and he was recently invited to the Springboks’ alignment camp in Cape Town, where he had the opportunity to train alongside some of the best players in the country.
The alignment camp is a crucial step for Ntlabakanye, as it allows him to showcase his skills and adapt to the Springboks’ culture and way of doing things. With the guidance of experienced players and coaches, Ntlabakanye is determined to prove that he has what it takes to play at the highest level.
As the 2025 season approaches, the competition for a spot in the Springboks squad intensifies. Ntlabakanye knows that he must continue to perform at his best and demonstrate his value to the team. His commitment to the Lions and his unwavering desire to represent his country have earned him the respect of his teammates and fans alike.