Who Is Ox Nché: Ten Things You Should Know About The Springboks Prop

Ox Nché is one of rugby’s top props and a fan favourite, known for his strength in scrums and his powerful presence on the field. Here’s a quick look at his impressive journey to becoming a key player for South Africa’s Springboks.

 

 

 

1. Full Name & Birthdate: Retshegofaditswe ‘Ox’ Nché was born on 23 July 1995.

 

 

2. Nickname ‘Ox’: His nickname comes from his incredible strength at the scrums and breakdowns, much like former Springbok great Os du Randt.

 

 

3. Schooling: Nché attended HTS Louis Botha in Bloemfontein, where he stood out in youth rugby, playing for Free State in the U16 and U18 national tournaments.

 

 

4. Education: He studied Geography and Statistics at the University of Free State and played rugby for the Shimlas in the Varsity Cup. His performances here led to a professional contract with the Cheetahs.

 

 

5. Super Rugby Debut: Nché made his Super Rugby debut with the Cheetahs in 2016, impressing with his versatility as a prop who could link with the backs and compete at the breakdown.

 

 

6. Currie Cup Success: In 2016, he helped Free State win the Currie Cup, and was named Currie Cup Player of the Year at SA Rugby’s annual awards.

 

 

7. South Africa A: In 2017, Nché was selected for the South Africa A squad to face the French Barbarians. Although he played well, he had to wait until 2018 for his first Test cap.

 

 

8. Springbok Debut: Nché made his Springbok debut in June 2018 against Wales in Washington DC, as part of an experimental B-team. Though the Boks lost, it was a key step in his career.

 

 

9. Career Move: After the Cheetahs were relegated from Super Rugby, Nché joined the Sharks in 2020. He thrived at the Sharks and later earned more Test caps, including starting against Georgia and the British & Irish Lions in 2021.

 

 

10. Future Springbok Great: Rugby legend Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira believes Nché will become one of South Africa’s greatest looseheads, praising his all-around skills in scrums, attack, and defense.

 

 

From his strong early years at the Cheetahs to his current status as a key player for the Springboks, Ox Nché’s rise to the top has been nothing short of impressive.