South African Rugby is mourning the loss of former Springbok skipper and flanker Des van Jaarsveldt, who passed away on Monday at the age of 96.
Van Jaarsveldt, who was the oldest living Springbok, captained South Africa in his only Test match — a memorable 18-10 victory over Scotland on 30 April 1960 at Boet Erasmus Stadium in Gqeberha. He even crossed the whitewash for a try on debut.
Born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, on 31 March 1929, Van Jaarsveldt represented the Springboks while playing out of Rhodesia, as Zimbabwe was then known.
SPRINGBOK LEGEND REMEMBERED
Between 1947 and 1962, Van Jaarsveldt made over 60 provincial appearances for Rhodesia, many of them as captain in the Currie Cup. After hanging up his boots, he remained deeply connected to the game, taking on roles as a coach, administrator, and working with the South African Rugby Legends Association (SARLA).
“Des will not only be remembered as the oldest living Springbok in the last number of years, but he was a leader with a deep love for the game who leaves behind a wonderful legacy,” said Mark Alexander, president of SA Rugby.
“He will not only be remembered for his achievements on the rugby field, but Des was also an accomplished boxer and athlete, and was devoted to assisting and giving back to sport in his native Zimbabwe.
“On behalf of the South African rugby family, I would like to honour his legacy as a former national captain and someone who ploughed back into our beloved game, and I would like to express our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and loved ones in this very sad and difficult time.”
A true pioneer of the sport in southern Africa, Des van Jaarsveldt’s impact on rugby both on and off the field will not be forgotten.
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