From Northern Cape Farm Boy to International Rugby Prospect
Jacobus Hermanus “Cobus” Wiese, born on June 2, 1997, in Upington, Northern Cape, has emerged as one of South Africa’s most promising rugby talents. Standing at an imposing 1.99 meters (6’6″) and weighing 125 kilograms, this versatile forward has carved out a reputation as a dynamic player capable of excelling at lock, flanker, and even number eight positions.
Early Life and Rural Beginnings
Cobus grew up on his family’s farm in the Northern Cape alongside his older brother Jasper, who would later become a double Rugby World Cup winner with the Springboks. The Wiese brothers developed their physical prowess not through conventional training but through hard farm work. “Jasper and I didn’t grow up in a gym. We worked on the farm,” Cobus reflects with characteristic humility.
Cobus attended Hoërskool Upington, where his rugby talents first became evident, earning him provincial call-ups for Griquas Country Districts from 2013 to 2015. His standout performances at youth level included representing his province in the prestigious Under-16 Grant Khomo Week and the Under-18 Craven Week tournaments.
International Youth Career
In 2016, Wiese achieved a significant milestone when he was selected for the South Africa Under-20 squad to compete at the World Rugby Under 20 Championship in Manchester, England. His versatility was on full display as he started as a lock against Japan in their opening 59-19 victory, then switched to flanker for their crucial 40-31 bonus-point win over France that secured South Africa’s semi-final berth.
Professional Career Development
Stormers and Early Professional Years
Cobus joined the Western Province academy in 2016 and was subsequently included in the Stormers squad for the 2017 Super Rugby season. He made his Super Rugby debut as a replacement against the Sunwolves in Singapore, marking the beginning of his professional career. In July 2018, his performances earned him inclusion in the Springboks squad for the Rugby Championship, showcasing his rapid rise through South African rugby’s ranks.
English Premiership Experience
In 2020, Wiese made the significant decision to join Sale Sharks in England’s Premiership Rugby, where he would spend four crucial developmental years. During his time with Sale Sharks, Wiese played more than 3,720 minutes across 77 matches, helping the club reach the domestic final in the 2022/23 season. This English experience provided him with invaluable exposure to northern hemisphere rugby and enhanced his overall game understanding.
Return to South Africa and Bulls Career
In a major coup for South African rugby, the Vodacom Bulls secured Wiese’s signature on a two-year deal beginning July 1, 2024. Bulls Director of Rugby Jake White praised the acquisition, highlighting Wiese’s versatility and international experience. “He is a talented lock who can play at flank too, so he is versatile and that adds to our arsenal,” White noted.
Family Legacy and Springbok Aspirations
The Wiese family has endured both triumph and tragedy. In 2019, the family suffered the devastating loss of their sister in an accident in Cape Town, an experience that shaped Cobus’s perspective on rugby and life. “The most important thing is not to put your identity in your rugby results,” he philosophically observes.
Cobus harbors a dream that resonates with rugby romantics worldwide: playing alongside his brother Jasper for the Springboks. “It is a dream for me and Jasper to play together one day and that’s the No 1 prize,” he states with genuine emotion.
Physical Attributes and Playing Style
Wiese prides himself on his physicality, whether playing lock or anywhere else in the pack. Standing just short of two meters and providing an excellent lineout option, he combines his imposing physical presence with the work ethic instilled during his farm upbringing.
Conclusion
Cobus Wiese represents the modern South African rugby player: physically imposing, tactically versatile, and internationally experienced. As he continues his career with the Bulls, the rugby world watches eagerly to see if this farm boy from Upington can fulfill his ultimate dream of wearing the green and gold alongside his illustrious brother, creating one of rugby’s most compelling family stories.
