WHAT A WAY TO KICK OFF!

Aphelele Fassi was the one to watch when the Springboks thrashed Georgia

- ROBYN LUCAS

HE’S been dubbed the “wonder wing” and it’s easy to see why. Aphelele Fassi’s blistering speed, good passes, and rock-solid defense have been praised by rugby fans and experts worldwide.

It came as no surprise when the talented young player got called up to represent his country for the Springboks’ first game of the season against Georgia.

And Aphelele (23) didn’t disappoint.

The newcomer scored his first Test try in the fifth minute of the game – contributing to the Boks’ 40-9 thrashing of the Georgians.

Playing at left wing instead of his usual fullback position, he also set up another try with a well-executed chip kick.

“I’m very fortunate to score a try on debut and my first touch,” Aphelele tells YOU.

“I think I got confidence from assistant coaches Mzwandile Stick and Felix Jones and everyone in the setup.”

Modest as Aphelele maybe, his dream debut sent fans into a frenzy. Videos of neighbours throwing a party for his parents in the small town of Qonce in the Eastern Cape went viral on social media.

“Back home, everyone supports each other’s achievement and what they did for me was special. When I sent the video, I was quite emotional because people were taking their time to actually support me and my family for my achievements,” he says.

“It makes me super-proud to see there are people who have my back and people who support me.”