Brevis, Hele, Kolbe and Foster: South Africa’s stars to watch on the world stage

South Africa’s sporting talent is shining brightly across the globe, with a new generation of stars carrying the hopes of their nation in cricket, rugby and football.

From Dewald Brevis’s explosive batting for the Proteas to Aseza Hele’s barnstorming runs at the Women’s Rugby World Cup, Cheslin Kolbe’s big-match nous for the Springboks, and Lyle Foster’s goalscoring touch for Bafana Bafana, each is stepping onto the international stage with the weight of expectation — and the chance to inspire a country.

FRIDAY

FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier: Lesotho v Bafana Bafana @ Bloemfontein Stadium, 6pm

LYLE FOSTER

With Bafana Bafana preparing to face Lesotho and Nigeria, much rests on the shoulders of Burnley striker Foster.

The 24-year-old struck against Manchester United at Old Trafford last Saturday, a confidence-boosting performance even in Burnley’s 3-2 defeat. His ability to score in high-pressure moments is exactly what Bafana Bafana need as they target World Cup qualification.

The former Orlando Pirates forward combines sharp shooting with creativity, making him a vital asset for Hugo Broos’ side.

SATURDAY

The Rugby Championship: New Zealand v Springboks @ Eden Park, 9am

CHESLIN KOLBE

Kolbe’s record of 18 tries in 42 Tests is impressive, but his contribution to the Springboks against the All Blacks at Eden Park on Saturday will be about much more than attack.

With rain forecast for the Rugby Championship clash, South Africa are expected to lean heavily on their kicking game. Kolbe, despite his modest stature, is exceptional in the air, contesting high balls and making life difficult for opponents with his tenacity and timing.

SUNDAY

Third ODI: England v Proteas @ The Rose Bowl, 12pm

DEWALD BREVIS

Proteas’ rising star Dewald Brevis is set to take centre stage in the third One-Day International against England at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Sunday. Known affectionately as “Baby AB”, Brevis is quickly forging a reputation of his own with his six-hitting exploits.

At just 22, he is steadily fulfilling the potential spoken of since his junior days. Proteas coach Shukri Conrad insists Brevis is “no one-trick pony” and believes he will grow into a world-class all-format player, especially after his record-breaking 125 not out on the recent tour of Australia.

ASEZA HELE

Women's Rugby World Cup final group game: France v Springbok Women @ Franklin Gardens

Hele, who describes herself as “a sweetheart off the field but a monster on it,” has taken the Women’s Rugby World Cup by storm. Powerfully built and sporting a striking crown of peroxided hair, the No 8 has terrorised the defences of Italy and Brazil, with France bracing for the same treatment.

She scored a hat-trick of tries against Brazil and added another crucial score against Italy, underlining her status as one of the tournament’s most impactful players.