If anyone had told rising rugby star Ntokozo Makhaza that he would one day be included in the Springbok alignment squad camp, he would have looked at them and laughed. But his hard tackles and sprinting tries have propelled him forward, bringing the incredible possibility of one day wearing the green and gold for South Africa within reach!
Cape Town, South Africa (28 May 2025) – Hailing from the small town of Harrismith in the Free State, Ntokozo Makhaza grew up playing a lot of soccer, but that soon changed when he was introduced to rugby in primary school, probably the very best thing to happen to him!
He currently plays for the UCT Ikeys Tigers as a wing and fullback and has recently become one of South Africa’s most exciting young rugby prospects.
Makhaza was for the second time named Player of the Year as well as Backline Player of the Year in the recent Varsity Cup season. But that is just the tip of the iceberg for the young player’s promising career, as he recently was informed that he has been included in the 54-man Springbok alignment camp!
The 23-year-old admitted that receiving the news came as a surprise, and that he couldn’t help but wonder if it was legit. However, once it was confirmed, Makhaza shared that he was nervous and excited for the opportunity to level up his game.
“I was very surprised that I’m part of the camp. A bit nervous, but excited. I’m just happy and motivated to see that people are watching and monitoring varsity rugby. It inspired me to believe more that the dreams I have are possible,” Makhaza tells UCT, where he is a Bachelor of Social Science student.
In another major step in his already impressive rise, Makhaza will also join the Free State Cheetahs in July for the upcoming Currie Cup season, affording him the opportunity to contribute to rebuilding a team that’s investing in youth.
“They’re giving youngsters a chance, and I want to make the most of that,” he says.
“It’s about learning, growing, and giving my best.”
With every opportunity that comes this rugby player’s way, Makhaza’s main focus remains on soaking up everything he can at the Springbok alignment camp, something he never imagined even in his wildest dreams.
“If anyone would say I would be part of the Springbok alignment camp a few years back, or even at the beginning of this year, I would have looked at him and laughed.
“To me, it’s an honour and I’m privileged and humbled. I think it’s been created by the coaches and players because of the opportunity and platform they gave me. I’m humbled and excited for the opportunity,” shares a grateful Makhaza.
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