Ntokozo Makhaza: I got a call from an unknown number
Ntokozo Makhaza stands on the brink of history, after receiving a maiden Springbok call up last week.
Makhaza first made headlines when he was first named in the second alignment camp squad by Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus.
Often known for his 'genius' rugby ideas and strategies, Erasmus pulled another one out of the hat with Makhaza. The 2x World Cup winning mentor had done something similar before. This time last year, he called up former NWU Pukke Varsity Cup winning captain Sampie Swiegers . Starring at what was looking like a brewing tighthead prop crisis, Eramsus turned to the burly star for cover.
But in the end, it was just for cover. But with Makhaza, while many were expecting a similar situation, it proved different. Speaking to Newzroom Afrika 's Yolulwe Qoshe in Durban, he describes how he found out about his Springbok alignment camp call.
'I think I was overjoyed. I obviously, initially got the text from my coach, like two days before we won the Varsity Cup (with UCT Ikeys). Him telling me that, Rassie Erasmus asked for my number, at first I thought he was joking. Only for him to say no, he is being honest and telling the truth. And then from then on I was just overjoyed. I think everyday for a month after that, I was expecting that call from him, which I didn't get.' Makhaza recalls.
Makhaza then remembers the moment things seemed to change in his favour, with that Springbok call finally coming!
' Until this one morning, I got a call from an unknown number, picked it up and it was Rassie (Erasmus). In that moment, I don't remember half the conversation, I was just overjoyed! But it's also very inspiring, to have someone like him looking at Varsity rugby, a 2x World Cup winner. Sees something in me' Makhaza continued.
Makhaza relieves the moment he walked into the alignment camp, wearing the same Springbok tracksuit as some World Cup winners.
' I felt humbled and honoured I was like, 'is this really me? Being in the presence of all these players who have made a name for themselves in rugby. World Cup winners like Siya Kolisi. I mean, I even remember the people I was sitting around. In front of me was (Damian) Willemse, to his right was Kolisi, to his right was (Eben) Etzebeth, behind me was (Lukhanyo) Am, (Aphelele) Fassi, Ox Nche and Bongi Mbonambi' recalled Makhaza about being in the presence of experienced Springboks.
'In that moment I tried to pinch myself, I look down, I was wearing a Springbok top and I was like, is this really me, being in this environment. But it was a very welcoming experience. I never felt left out in anyway. That's just credit to the culture that they have and it made me want to be a part of it more' Makhaza continued.
The 23-year-old Bethlehem-born star could be set for a historic feat. This by becoming the first player to be capped by the Springboks before playing a professional game. Makhaza says achieving that would mean the world to himself and his family.
'It would probably feel unreal at that moment but, it would be a testament to what people have done for me. The support that they've given me, my parents, my coaches, teammates, teachers and all my mentors along the way. So if I was to ever make that team it would be testament to their hard work, not just mine.' He concluded. Watch the video below:
Makhaza's first opportunity for a Springbok debut will be against the Barbarians on the 28th of June. Should Erasmus give the Varsity Cup's top points scorer of all time a debut? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab. Or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. You can also follow @TheSAnews on X and The South African on Facebook for the latest news.
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