Embrose Cheldon Papier, born on April 25, 1997, in the small Western Cape town of Clanwilliam, has emerged as one of South Africa’s most promising rugby talents. Standing at 1.71 meters tall and weighing 80 kilograms, this dynamic scrumhalf has carved out an impressive career that spans from schoolboy rugby stardom to professional excellence with the Bulls.
Early Life and Rugby Beginnings
Papier’s rugby journey began in humble surroundings in Clanwilliam, but his talent was evident from an early age. At just 13 years old, he earned provincial honors representing Boland at the 2010 Under-13 Craven Week, showcasing the natural ability that would define his career. His family later moved to Malmesbury, where his mother relocated for work, but it was a brief stay before rugby opportunity came calling.
After just two days at his new school in Malmesbury, Papier received an offer that would change his life forever. Schools in Pretoria, first Hoërskool Die Wilgers and later Hoërskool Garsfontein, recognized his potential and offered him a chance to pursue his rugby dreams in the rugby heartland of South Africa.
School Rugby Excellence
At Hoërskool Garsfontein, Papier’s star continued to rise. In 2014, despite still being in the Under-17 age bracket, he was included in the Blue Bulls squad for the Under-18 Craven Week, South Africa’s premier high school rugby tournament. His performances were exceptional – he started all three matches and scored a crucial try in their 36-15 victory over KwaZulu-Natal.
His schoolboy success continued in 2015 when he was named vice-captain of the South Africa Schools team. He scored tries against both Wales and England, helping South Africa avenge their previous year’s defeat to England with a 23-16 victory. That same year, Papier added another accolade to his growing reputation by starring for the South African youth sevens squad that won gold at the 2015 Commonwealth Youth Games.
Professional Career Development
After completing high school, Papier joined the Blue Bulls academy in 2016. Despite not making initial South Africa Under-20 training squads, his perseverance paid off when he was selected for the final squad for the 2016 World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Manchester, England. He made an immediate impact, scoring South Africa’s first try in their crucial 40-31 victory over France that secured their semi-final place, though an ankle injury unfortunately ended his tournament early.
Bulls and Springbok Career
Papier’s professional breakthrough came when he was named in the Bulls’ Super Rugby extended training squad in November 2016. His progression was rapid, and by 2018, he had earned his first Springbok cap, playing seven Tests under coach Rassie Erasmus during the team’s rebuilding phase.
However, Papier’s international career faced challenges. Despite his obvious talent, he found himself outside the Springbok setup during their back-to-back World Cup winning campaigns under Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber. This period tested his resolve, but it also fueled his determination to regain his place in the national team.
Recent Form and Future Prospects
Under Bulls director of rugby Jake White’s guidance, Papier has experienced a career renaissance. His performances in the United Rugby Championship have been exceptional, with his electric pace and improved kicking game adding a new dimension to the Bulls’ attack. The team has scored the most tries and points in the URC during recent campaigns, with Papier playing a central role.
Working under the tutelage of Bulls and Springbok legend Fourie du Preez, Papier has refined his skills significantly. His box-kicking has improved dramatically, and he’s become more tactically astute while maintaining his natural running threat. Recent performances have seen him earn Player of the Match awards and renewed calls for Springbok selection.
Personal Life and Inspiration
Beyond rugby, Papier draws inspiration from unexpected sources. He cites French scrumhalf Antoine Dupont as a player he studies, despite having beaten Dupont’s France team during their Under-20 encounters. Recently engaged to his long-time girlfriend Aneeka Sulaiman, Papier has found stability off the field that has translated to consistency in his performances.
Embrose Papier’s journey from a small-town boy in Clanwilliam to a professional rugby star exemplifies the power of talent, determination, and perseverance. As he continues to excel for the Bulls, his ultimate goal remains clear: to once again don the green and gold of the Springboks and cement his place among South Africa’s rugby elite.
