It’s an unusual year in KZN rugby for several reasons. Chief among them is that the race for Craven Week selection is more wide open than it’s been in years — across virtually every position. Almost every first team this season boasts at least one, if not multiple, go-to u17 players, crowding out the selection pool and likely giving the u18 provincial selectors some serious headaches.
Leading the charge at this stage are three standout names: Theo Boshoff (Maritzburg College – hooker), Nicholas Salamousas (Michaelhouse – prop), and Jamie Wimble (Northwood – eighthman). What’s remarkable — and a little unsettling — is that despite their standout performances, there’s no guarantee any of the three will make the cut for the Sharks’ exclusive u18 Youth Week side and may have to settle for the u17 Academy Week.
Boshoff’s strength and impact in the tight-loose is hard to miss. Salamousas brings a relentless engine and carries the ball with purpose — drawing comparisons to Michaelhouse greats Rocky Knox (2016/17) and Brandon Jewell (2019). Northwood coach Jacques Deen has smartly converted Wimble from centre to a powerful, aggressive ball-carrier with real pace and penetration over the advantage line.
Among the other promising u17s are Zander Muller (Hilton – 8), an imposing physical presence, and the athletic Nhlanhla Ndlovu (Kearsney – 8), both of whom have been consistent performers. Adding to the depth are two hard-working lock/blindside hybrids: Sambesiwe Ndamase (Glenwood) and Lwandle Mlaba (Westville), who put in serious graft up front.
Backline excitement comes in the form of DHS duo Nathan Aneke (13) and Cilermo Carolus (15), both of whom have delivered electrifying moments as they’ve sliced through defences. Reliable Michaelhouse fullback Alex Jankowitz has also caught the eye on several occasions this season.
Out wide, Avumila Lisa (Westville – wing) has matched up well against the pace and lateral movement of Kearsney’s X-factor player Lwandle Mkhize (11). With a youthful squad, Kearsney relies heavily on their u17 talent, including the skilful Lwazi Mbebe (15), who continues to dazzle with his flair and sometimes outrageous confidence.
There are a few others who were also meant to be using the season to learn the ropes but have already developed the confidence and physical attributes required to succeed at 1st XV level.
David Colenbrander (6) has been immense for College this season, his performance against the Candies was top drawer!!