Ntokozo Makhaza’s rapid rise: From Varsity Cup to Springboks in remarkable season
Ntokozo Makhaza’s 2025 season has been extraordinary, transitioning from Varsity Cup Player of the Year to signing with the Cheetahs and joining the Springbok alignment camp, marking his rapid rise in South African rugby. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Ntokozo Makhaza’s rise to the top of SA rugby in 2025 has been nothing short of meteoric.
At the beginning of the year, the 23-year-old backline player was turning in top performances in the Varsity Cup.
After being named Varsity Cup Player of the Year and Backline Player of the Year for the second consecutive year, the big unions began to take notice.
The Cheetahs have since signed Makhaza as he makes the transition to professional rugby player, while putting his studies on the back burner.
Makhaza’s Dream Season: From Varsity Cup Victory to Springbok Alignment Camp
Makhaza was also included in the Springbok alignment camp ahead of the new season, showing that he is already on the radar of coach Rassie Erasmus.
Though his Springbok debut may still be some distance away, Makhaza is now determined to try and make that happen as soon as possible.
“Any rugby player’s dream in South Africa is to play for the Springboks, it’s a huge goal of mine,” Makhaza told SportsBoom.co.za.
“After having a taste of the alignment camp and training sessions in Johannesburg, I am attracted to that [Springbok] culture and I just want to make sure I fit in the system. I want to make it.”
“I haven’t had any calls as to when I might be returning but am very hopeful and I am ready because anything can happen.”
As for the whirlwind season that has been 2025, Makhaza said: “Yoh! I would say it has been a dream season,” Makhaza beams.
“Everything just fell together… winning the Varsity Cup with UCT, getting player of the tournament, joining the Cheetahs, and then being called into the Boks camp it’s surreal. I’m just grateful. I know many people wish they were in this position. I’m taking it all in.”