Nortje Reflects On Springbok Journey As He Prepares For Italy Challenge
Ruan Nortje’s journey into the Springbok setup has been one of patience, opportunity and growth. Having progressed through the Bulls structures before establishing himself at international level, the second-row forward says the past two years have been an unforgettable experience, one he continues to approach with gratitude and perspective.
The Pretoria-born lock made his Springbok debut against Wales on 9 July 2022 in Bloemfontein, coming off the bench in South Africa’s narrow 13-12 defeat. However, it was during the 2024 international season that his opportunities increased, with injuries to established locks opening the door for him to become part of Rassie Erasmus’s plans for the Rugby Championship.
Nortje seized the opportunity, developing into a dependable presence in the Springbok engine room through his lineout ability, work rate, physicality and consistency.
“These last two years have flown by, and so much has happened. I was in a privileged position to be in the right place at the right time,” Nortje said.
He was also quick to acknowledge the influence of those around him, highlighting the culture within the Springbok camp and the support he received from his teammates as key factors in making his transition to international rugby easier.
“There are a lot of players around me who really made life easier for me, and that speaks to the culture at the Springboks and how the players operate and perform around you,” he explained.
Despite the progress he has made, Nortje remains determined to stay grounded and appreciate every opportunity to represent his country.
“It still feels unreal, but I try to take it one game at a time and appreciate each game as if it’s my last.”
While his international career has continued to flourish, Nortje’s departure from the Bulls at the end of last season marked the end of a significant chapter in his rugby journey.
After spending a decade with the Pretoria-based franchise, he moved to Japan to join Kubota Spears, although his connection with the Bulls remains as strong as ever.
The lock says he remains closely connected to the friends and relationships he built during his time at Loftus Versfeld.
“I will always be a big Bulls supporter and remain a Bull in my heart. For the ten years I have been there, I have made some awesome, lifelong friends,” he said.
Nortje has also been impressed by the Bulls’ start to the season, believing their performances reflect the rugby philosophy of head coach Johan Ackermann.
“It’s been a great start for them, and the way they are playing is exactly how coach ‘Akkies’ wants them to play. It’s an exciting season for them, and I hope this is the year they can go one further.”
The 28-year-old is also looking forward to renewing his second-row partnership with Salmaan Moerat as the Springboks prepare for their Nations Championship clash against Italy in Turin on Saturday.
The two forwards have known each other since their Junior Springbok days in 2017, having progressed through the same age-group structures. Nortje has long admired Moerat and believes their shared history makes the prospect of playing alongside him particularly special.
“Salmaan and I have come along since 2017. We are from the same age group and played together at Under-20 Junior Springboks. Each time I get to play with him, it’s a real honour,” Nortje explained.
He also spoke warmly about Moerat’s journey, particularly the setbacks he has endured through injury and the determination he has shown in making his way back onto the field.
“I have looked up to him since we were schoolboys, seeing him play at Paarl Boys. He has been through so much with his injuries. He always fights his way back, so I am excited to join up with him in the second row.”
For Nortje, the next chapter brings fresh challenges, new combinations and another opportunity to build on the progress he has made in the green and gold.
