No Rivalries, Just Growth: Fassi’s Refreshing Take on Bok Backline Battle
There’s a certain calm to Aphelele Fassi when he speaks. It’s not arrogance, and it’s definitely not indifference — it’s clarity. The kind that only comes from a player who’s…
Freddy Hirsch renews and expands SA Rugby partnership
SA Rugby announced on Thursday that its partnership with the Freddy Hirsch Group (FHG) has been renewed for four more years, while the agreement has been expanded to include all…
“What the Cameras Don’t See: A Former Player’s Plea to Rebuild from Within”
By Renaldo Bothma Part 3 of 3 | Exclusive for Octafield There’s something I’ve been wanting to say for a while — and I’m saying it now, loud and clear:…
Springboks Brace for Gritty Showdown Against Robbie Deans’ Barbarians in Cape Town
Cape Town is in for a treat next week as the Springboks take on a star-studded Barbarians side, coached by the astute Robbie Deans. On the surface, it might seem…
The Real Opponent? Media Negativity Is Holding SA Rugby Back
By Renaldo Bothma Part 2 of 3 | Exclusive for Octafield Let me be blunt — one of the biggest challenges facing South African rugby today isn’t just injuries, player…
“To Run Out at a Full Loftus… That’s the Ultimate Drive”: Eben Etzebeth Opens Up Ahead of Rugby Return
There’s a certain weight behind the name Eben Etzebeth. Over a decade of bruising Test matches, fearless charges, and uncompromising defence has turned him into one of South African rugby’s…
“The Bulls Were Ready – But So Were Leinster: Perspective, Not Criticism, Is What We Need”
By Renaldo Bothma Part 1 of 3 | Exclusive for Octafield Let’s set the record straight. This past United Rugby Championship (URC) season was, without a doubt, the most well-prepared…
Flying Starts and Fierce Battles: Valke, EP, and Leopards Impress in Currie Cup First Division Opener
The Carling Currie Cup First Division roared into life on Saturday with three entertaining encounters that delivered drama, tries galore, and a glimpse of which sides may be chasing glory…
Springboks Trim Squad to 45 as Rassie Sharpens Focus Ahead of Season Opener
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has wasted no time in making early adjustments to his squad, cutting the training group down to 45 players as preparations intensify for a bumper…
EP4. URC Eindstryd: Kan die Bulle vir Leinster weer op hul plek sit?
In dié episode van Op die Kantlyn gesels MW Welman weer met oud-Bulls en Sharks losvoorspeler Renaldo Bothma om die 2025 URC-eindstryd tussen Leinster en die Bulle deeglik te ontleed.…