Speedy winger Cheslin Kolbe became the first backline player since 2013 to win the coveted SA Rugby Player of the Year Award after a stellar 2024 season with the Springboks. Photo: SA Rugby
Image: SA Rugby
Cheslin Kolbe didn't think he would be crowned the South African Rugby Player of the Year coming up against big names like Pieter-Steph du Toit, current World Rugby Player of the Year, Springbok centurion Eben Etzebeth and star inside centre Damian de Allende.
But the accolade fell to the fleet-footed winger on Thursday evening in Cape Town when he dusted out his Springbok teammates to be crowned the best player in SA for 2024.
He follows in the footsteps of former Stormers teammate Jean de Villiers who was the last backline player, back in 2013, to win the prestigious award.
Kolbe said he is still pinching himself after bagging the win after a stellar 2024 with the Springboks.
“Growing up and seeing all the players who have lifted this award has motivated me to one day do the same,” Kolbe said in a video interview.
Due to his club commitments in Japan, he could not attend the event in Cape Town and his father Andrew received the award on his behalf.
“Yes, my name will be on it, but 2024 has been a team effort. I want to thank the coaches and my teammates for believing in me and allowing me to represent my country.
“You don't play to get those accolades and it's not a one-man show. I am in a team environment and the team comes first. But getting those nominations helps with your confidence if you want to put it that way.
“For me, it's about being a better player in 2025 than what I've been last season.”
Kolbe helped the Springboks achieve an 85% win record in 2024 and is looking forward to what this year’s matches will hold. The Boks will play 15 Tests, two must still be confirmed, and a warmup match against the Barbarians.
The winger says he will hopefully perform for his Japanese club to be involved with the national side again.
After winning the best player award, it’s difficult to see him not making the Springboks squad.
He added it’s been an incredible journey with the Boks since 2018, but there is more to do. In that space, they’ve won two World Cups, which he has been a part of, and last year claimed the Rugby Championship and Freedom Cup, defeating the All Blacks twice.
“It’s going to be an exciting 2025 Test season. Those matches played in South Africa will be massive. From last year, the atmosphere and energy have just been unbelievable. Everybody comes out to support the Springboks. We must ensure we are as excited as our supporters for this year.”