Herschel Jantjies Biography

Herschel Jantjies, one of the smallest players you’ll see in a Springbok jersey, let alone a rugby pitch, has the heart of men twice his size.

The unusually small scrumhalf always brings a spirited performance with swift reactions and nimble movements. While his pace and skill was never in doubt, his height and reach was very much debated while he was trying to break into the professional scene.

His story starts at his birth place, Kylemore. From a young age, Herschel Jantjies would insist on playing sport everyday after school in the family backyard. This continued practice is what carved the path for him to become a Springbok.

Unfortunately, his parents could not afford to send him to a notable sporting school, but a caring primary school teacher vouched for him and the aspiring Springbok got into Paul Roos Gymnasium, a school revered for its ability to produce Springboks.

He represented Western Province from a young age, attending the Craven Week tournaments, and playing for the Under-19 and Under-21 squads in the Rugby Challenge. A series of events involving international duty and injuries saw him joining the Scarlets on loan for one game against the Cheetahs.

Herschel Jantjies finally got his call to join the Stormers in the final game of the 2018 Super Rugby season. He went on to be a regular starter for the Stormers and secured 50 points in 25 appearances.

Less than a year later, he was drafted to play the opening game for South Africa in the 2019 Rugby Championship against Australia. The vivacious scrumhalf bagged two tries to seal a 35-17 win.

The try-scoring antics continued in the next game against New Zealand when the speedy scrumhalf put down the only try for his side in Wellington to give them a 16-16 draw.

All his efforts and talents did not go unnoticed as he was called up for the 2019 Rugby World Cup Squad. The Springboks, of course, went on to win the World Cup.

Two years later, Herschel Jantjies would be summoned to face the British & Irish Lions. The Springboks would snag a 2-1 series victory after a tumultuous three games.

In an interview, Herschel Jantjies explained that if his journey helps even one person realize their dreams, he’ll be happy. Looking at the impact he’s made as a Springbok, it would be hard to imagine him sad.