Captain's profile: S Mkhabela
With two years' experience as a first XV player and having been part of the 2015 first XV that suffered an Classic Clash, Mkhabela is fully aware of how difficult it is to secure a win in their neighbours’ backyard.
"We [Hoërskool Sasolburg] have won five of the seven Classic Clashes played between the schools thus far. However, last year they [HTS Sasolburg] managed to walked away with a 26-13 victory on our home ground.
"Thus, travelling to them [this time around] is going to be a challenge. I do anticipate a high, intense match this coming Saturday," Mkhabela said.
Despite not having one of their best seasons, the 18-year-old Mkhabela believes his young team have the ability to produce a massive upset.
"The season has had its ups and downs. We lost some games that people expected us to win, but that is sport – you win some and you lose some.
"The team that will be taking the field on Saturday consists mainly of Grade 11 pupils. The core of our squad is really inexperienced but they have one thing in their favour, and that is heart. I believe that when the moment comes, they will perform," the skipper stated.
Makhabela has been playing rugby since the age of 10 and still remembers the first time he played representative rugby.
"Playing for the Falcons Under-12 side would definitely be the highlight of my rugby career. Barefoot rugby can be really intense.
"I would put being named captain also on that list. To captain the first XV brings joy and pleasure to my heart. As a captain I realize the importance of communication amongst my team mates," he added.
It may be his last Classic Clash, but an absence from rugby is not on the card for this career driven young man.
