Former Springbok Sbu Nkosi is on the verge of starting a trial period with the Cheetahs, though he has not yet joined the team.
Sbu Nkosi, a former World Cup-winning Springbok, has been somewhat removed from the rugby scene since his departure from the Bulls last year, following his release amid highly publicized off-field issues.
This situation escalated when Nkosi vanished in December 2022, leading to an extensive and concerning search before he was eventually located. Nkosi later disclosed that he was dealing with significant mental health issues after disappearing again for several weeks. Efforts to provide him with mental health support did not yield the anticipated results, leading to a temporary halt in his once thriving rugby career, although he did make a return to play for the Bulls. However, he was released from the Pretoria-based team as he continued to face personal challenges.
The future of Nkosi’s rugby career has been uncertain, but RugbyPass reported that he was seeking a one-year deal with the Cheetahs for their Currie Cup campaign.
OFM Sport has now confirmed that Nkosi has yet to start training with the Cheetahs but may begin a trial period by the end of the month once arrangements are finalized.
CHEETAHS READY TO PROVIDE SBU NKOSI A ‘SECOND CHANCE’
Assistant coach Charl Strydom mentioned, “We’ve seen numerous players rejuvenate their careers here.”
“This is a place where players can reignite their careers after facing setbacks. It’s always been about offering players a chance to revitalize their careers upon arriving here.
“We hope to help him reach his potential once again because he certainly has the talent.”
THE WING, WITH 16 SPRINGBOK APPEARANCES, HAS BEEN SIDELINED FOR A WHILE
Until now, there was no clear indication of Nkosi’s next career steps, though he recently hinted in a social media post that he was contemplating his “next move.”
UNCERTAINTY OVER HIS PLAYING FUTURE
With Nkosi taking an indefinite hiatus from rugby, speculation arose that he might join a team like the Cheetahs, Pumas, Griquas, or even pursue opportunities abroad.
The Cheetahs have now been identified as a potential new home for Sbu Nkosi.
