Captain's profile: Nama Xaba

 

The flank will make his 22nd first team appearance for the Green Machine.

 

"I’m expecting them to be physical and emotional as they’ve invested a lot in their side for this game in particular, because the occasion is a big one.

 

"Recently, Glenwood has had the better of DHS but on the whole it’s been a closely contested fixture and they are our oldest traditional rivalry, said Xaba.

 

The 1.85m, 93kg matriculant says it is a huge responsibility being named captain of the prestigious Kwa-Zulu Natal school.

 

"It’s a very humbling experience to captain a side like this and I see it as a big responsibility.

 

"My philosophy is to always set the example and to put my body on the line for the team when the going gets tough and to rather talk the whole time I set the example, he said.

 

Xaba has played provincial representative rugby for KZN at Under-13 Craven Week, Grant Khomo week and Academy week and has done so with success.

 

"It was a privilege and a blessing having represented the province from a young age and the weeks I’ve participated in have been successful ones for KZN.

 

"I captained the Grant Khomo side during an unbeaten tournament and then made it to the finals last year against Western Province at Academy week," he added.

 

The 18-year-old says his strengths as a player lies in his defence and his aerial skills. As a captain it is decision-making in pressured situations and motivating his side that he feels sets him apart. 

 

After school, Xaba hopes to pursue a rugby career that goes in line with his academic studies.