Standing at 2.03 meters tall and weighing 127 kilograms, Jason Jenkins represents the epitome of South African rugby’s powerful lock forward tradition. His journey from the youth rugby fields of Pretoria to the international stage showcases a career built on resilience, determination, and raw athletic ability.
Early Foundations at St. Alban’s College
Born on December 2, 1995, in Pretoria, Jenkins honed his rugby skills at St. Alban’s College, a renowned institution for developing South African rugby talent. It was here that his imposing physical presence and natural rugby instincts began to emerge, setting the foundation for what would become a remarkable professional career.
After completing high school, Jenkins joined the Blue Bulls Academy, establishing himself immediately in the Blue Bulls U19 squad during the 2014 Under-21 Provincial Championship. His impact was immediate and decisive – appearing in all fourteen matches and starting thirteen, scoring crucial tries against the Sharks U19s and Western Province U19s to help the Blue Bulls finish top of the log and qualify for the semi-finals.
Rising Through the Junior Ranks
The young lock’s talent caught national attention early. In 2015, Jenkins was named in a 37-man South Africa Under-20 training squad, marking his first taste of international rugby. His performances in Argentina during a preparatory tour were exceptional, starting both matches against Argentina with victories of 25-22 and 39-28.
Jenkins’ breakthrough moment came at the 2015 World Rugby Under 20 Championship, where he played in all three Pool B matches, starting against Samoa and Australia and scoring tries in both games to help South Africa finish top of their pool. This tournament performance established him as one of the most promising young forwards in South African rugby.
Super Rugby Success and Recognition
Jenkins’ transition to senior rugby with the Bulls was nothing short of spectacular. In November 2017, he was named Super Rugby Forward of the Year at the Blue Bulls awards ceremony after featuring in all 15 Bulls Super Rugby matches and scoring 4 tries. This recognition highlighted his development from promising youngster to established professional.
His consistency and work rate were remarkable. He headed into the 2018 Super Rugby season with 28 caps for the Bulls and 5 tries, and the Bulls confirmed he had signed a new deal to remain with the club until 2019. Jenkins had become an indispensable part of the Bulls’ forward pack, combining raw power with surprising mobility for a player of his size.
Springbok Dream Realized
The pinnacle of Jenkins’ early career came on June 2, 2018, when he made his Test debut for the senior Springboks against Wales in Washington, D.C., at just 22 years of age. This debut represented the culmination of years of dedication and marked his arrival on rugby’s biggest stage.
Unfortunately, international opportunities became limited as Jenkins found himself in the golden era of South African lock forwards. As one observer noted, “Jenkins’ only crime in a rugby career filled with highlights, is that he was born in a golden era for Springbok locks.”
International Adventures and Setbacks
Seeking new challenges and opportunities, Jenkins confirmed his signing with Japanese side Toyota Verblitz in June 2017. This move to Japan’s competitive Top League provided valuable international experience and exposed him to different rugby philosophies and playing styles.
In 2021, Jenkins joined Irish United Rugby Championship side Munster on a one-year contract, reuniting with his former Bulls teammate RG Snyman. However, this period proved challenging. Jenkins endured a difficult start at Munster, as shoulder, thigh and abdominal injuries restricted him to just one appearance by the start of 2022.
Resurgence at Leinster
Jenkins’ career renaissance came with his move to Leinster in 2022. After a horror injury run at Munster, Jenkins has been in sublime form for Leinster, scoring two tries in five games and being the master of Leinster’s maul, which has been unstoppable this season.
Coaches have consistently praised his unique skill set. As Johann van Graan explained, “He is one of the few players in World Rugby that you can play at 4, 5, 6 and 8 – his ball-carrying abilities stand out. He has incredibly soft hands in contact.”
Return to International Recognition
Jenkins’ impressive form at Leinster earned him a recall to the Springbok setup in 2022, four years after his initial cap. Springboks coach Jacques Nienaber acknowledged his journey: “This year he played five games now for Leinster and he is playing good rugby, he is playing consistently, starting games, finishing games, scored two great tries.”
Now 29 years old and currently playing for the Sharks in South Africa, Jenkins has completed a remarkable career journey that spans three continents and showcases the global nature of modern professional rugby.
Legacy of Persistence
Jason Jenkins’ career story transcends statistics and accolades. It represents the journey of a player who never gave up on his dreams despite setbacks, injuries, and fierce competition for places in one of rugby’s most competitive positions. As one analyst perfectly captured: “Jenkins possesses the grit and toughness that would make him an easy addition to any side across the world.”
From the youth fields of Pretoria to the grand stages of international rugby, Jenkins has proven that talent combined with persistence can overcome any obstacle. His story continues to inspire young South African players, demonstrating that with dedication and resilience, dreams of representing the Springboks can become reality, regardless of the challenges along the way.
