Pat Lambie Biography

One of the most skillful and inventive players in recent times, Pat Lambie jolted the crowd into action with his exciting brand of rugby. It would then come as a surprise to the world when the Springbok announced his retirement from the game in 2019.

Not because he had passed his peak, but injury had forced him away during it.

Patrick Lambie's rugby career was sprung at school level where he enjoyed a variety of sports, including cricket and rugby. His class was noticeable at high school level where he captained both the cricket and rugby team in his final year.

Before joining the Sharks in 2009, the versatile Springbok enjoyed some games in the South African Under-20 colours. He played five games for the Under-20 side and secured 75 points.

While he was playing for the Sharks Under-21 team at the age of 19, he managed to secure some game time on the senior team against the Griquas. His efforts in the Under-21 Currie Cup saw him perched at the top of the scoreboard come season end.

Next season Pat Lambie would make his debut at fullback for the Sharks, after previously coming on as a centre. He also started at fullback in the Currie Cup but spent some time playing at centre before settling at flyhalf.

His iconic performance in the 2010 Currie Cup final against Western Province saw him bag 25 points, man of the match, and an announcement that he would be part of the Springbok end-of-year tour. That would be his first Currie Cup victory, the second coming in 2013.

The months after his Springbok selection would see Pat Lambie become a regular for the green and gold. He featured in the 2011 Rugby World Cup where he started every game as fullback.

One of his more special moments was when the star ended New Zealand’s 22-game unbeaten streak in Ellis Park with a 50m+ kick to steal the game 27 - 25.

Despite the promising early start, he would face setbacks as cumbersome as his skill was extraordinary. Four concussions over his playing career began to take their toll, forcing him to retire lest he suffer permanent brain injury.

While Pat Lambie hung up his boots sooner than we expected, the jubilation he ignited within fans and peers alike will outlive his career tenfold.