Springbok Stars Ox Nche and Steven Kitshoff: A Friendly Rivalry Driven by Mutual Admiration

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South African rugby players Ox Nche and Steven Kitshoff share a unique bond built on respect and motivation as they compete for the same position in the Springbok team. Nche, who looks up to the experienced player, Kitshoff, insists that their relationship is not a competition, but rather an inspiration for him to become a better player.

Springbok Training Squad

Recently, Jacques Nienaber, the Springbok coach, announced a 40-player Rugby Championship training squad that includes a few international players. Nche and Kitshoff will join their fellow Springboks in Pretoria from June 11 to June 29 to prepare for the upcoming competition.

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Mutual Admiration

During a recent media conference, Nche spoke highly of Kitshoff, citing his impressive career with the Stormers and his impact on his development as a player. He sees Kitshoff as a mentor and an inspiration to improve. “I don’t see Steven as competition; we try to help one another,” said Nche.

Rugby Championship

As the Springboks prepare for the Rugby Championship and the World Cup, Nche emphasizes the importance of focusing on the former. He believes that to succeed in the World Cup, they must first perform well in the Rugby Championship.

A series of test fixtures will take place before the 2023 Rugby Championship, where the team will face off against Australia, New Zealand, and Argentina in Pretoria, Auckland, and Johannesburg, respectively. Following this, they will shift their focus to warm-up matches for the World Cup against Argentina, Wales, and New Zealand in Buenos Aires, Cardiff, and London, respectively.

Rugby World Cup

The Springboks will face a challenging schedule in the Rugby World Cup, taking on Scotland, Romania, Ireland, and Tonga in stadiums across France. However, the unique relationship between Nche and Kitshoff exemplifies the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie that the Springboks will need to succeed on the global stage.

A Dedicated Friendship

Amidst the competitive world of sports, Nche and Kitshoff’s friendship is an inspiration. It proves that even in the face of competition, mutual admiration and support can bring out the best in athletes. As the Springboks move forward in their journey to defend their title, the friendship between Nche and Kitshoff will undoubtedly continue to be a driving force for both players and their team. Their dedication to improvement, collaboration, and respect for one another sets a powerful example for aspiring athletes and fans alike.

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Liam Fortuin is a Cape Town journalist whose reporting on the city’s evolving food culture—from township kitchens to wine-land farms—captures the flavours and stories of South Africa’s many kitchens. Raised in Bo-Kaap, he still starts Saturday mornings hunting koesisters at family stalls on Wale Street, a ritual that feeds both his palate and his notebook.

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