THE PEOPLE'S CHAMPION

ON AND OFF THE FIELD, SPRINGBOKS WING CHESLIN KOLBE CONTINUES TO MAKE AN INSPIRATIONAL IMPACT.

- CRAIG LEWIS

One of the key selection criteria for the current Springboks coaches involves looking for a point of difference among players.

What sets an individual apart? Call it X-factor or that special something; the Boks under Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber have placed a premium on looking for a player who boasts qualities that set him apart from the crowd.

In that context, there is probably no player who better epitomizes this selection criterion than Cheslin Kolbe.

Through sheer weight of performances over his first two years on the test stage, the diminutive Springboks star has blazed his own unique trail in world rugby.

Such has been his success that any conversations around his size have faded into the distance as if mirroring the flailing English defenders who were left in his wake as he blitzed through for his famous try in last year’s World Cup final.

Kolbe – who punches above his weight on defense and seems to defy gravity with his abilities under the high ball – has proven that little men can make it big on the test stage.

Yet, despite his rise to prominence as one of the most highly-regarded players in the world, Kolbe remains as down to earth and humble as they come, unencumbered by his sudden fame and immense popularity.

These off-field qualities were perhaps best demonstrated in an endearing social media post he shared on Instagram back in May.

While many players use that platform to splash pictures of their fame and fortune, Kolbe offered a complete contrast in a heartfelt message raising awareness around crucial outreach work he was involved in during the coronavirus pandemic.

“The joy on those young kids faces, the suffering in our elders' eyes, the struggles in our communities, this is what hit home. This is what makes me want to do more.