Gary Teichmann Biography

Indubitably one of the most extraordinary captains to have donned the green and gold, Gary Teichmann’s time at the helm is always fondly remembered not just by South Africans, but rugby fans throughout.

The towering number 8 was born in Zimbabwe in January and moved to South Africa as a child. He started playing rugby at the University of Natal, eventually being spotted by the Sharks and invited to join the Currie Cup squad in 1991.

His stoic and humble approach was soon recognized as a captain’s trait and he was promoted to leading the Sharks side in 1995. Besides his likeable temperament, the number 8 knew how to bring out the best in his teammates and guided them to many famous victories including the win against the All Blacks at Kings Park in 1998.

During his time at the Sharks Gary Teichmann secured three Currie Cup trophies and reached the finals on two other occasions. He also made it to the Super 10 final in 1994. When the competition evolved into Super Rugby, he led the team as captain in that competition as well.

All in all, he played 144 games for the Sharks during the eight years he played for them.

His debut on the international stage came in 1995, despite touring with the team the two years prior but not receiving any actual game time. Gary Teichmann scored a try in his debut test and helped his team defeat Wales handily, 40 - 11.

In 1996 he was appointed captain of the Springboks and went on to have the incredible 17 win streak starting in 1997. Their streak ran into the 1998 Tri Nations (now The Rugby Championship) tournament, taking games from both New Zealand and Australia at home.

They started their spree by shredding Australia 61 - 22 at Loftus Versfeld. It came to an unfortunate end in Twickenham at the hand of England.

In 1999 Gary Teichmann went to Newport in Wales and helped the Welsh side win their first Principality Cup in 24 years. A testament to the skill and leadership he possessed.

Many consider Gary Teichmann to be one of the greatest, if not the greatest Springbok captain of all time. His indomitable run and leadership style carried them throughout the late 1990s, and many surmised had he stayed on longer the 1999 Rugby World Cup would have stayed in South Africa.