Boland speedster Xavier Mitchell, whose seven-try blitz stunned Eastern Province at the weekend, hails from a proud rugby family.
Mitchell is following in the footsteps of his father Franklin, who played in the WP League, and his uncle, the late Springbok great Chester Williams.
Mitchell, whose mother Anthea is Williams’ sister, said he still draws inspiration from his famous uncle.
“He never saw me play rugby. I wish he could,” Mitchell told Netwerk24.
STONEHOUSE: Not right that SWD not in Currie Cup
The 28-year-old winger’s seven-try haul ranks as the third-highest try tally in a senior provincial match in South African rugby history.
Mitchell said Williams’ renowned work ethic continues to inspire him.
“He worked hard off the field too, as I heard. I was too little to see him play. I watched the videos,” he added.
Despite his record-breaking performance and 20 tries in this year’s SA Cup campaign, Mitchell insisted individual accolades remain secondary.
“It’s not about me,” he said. “Everything I do is for the team.”
SA CUP: Ruthless Boland edge out Eagles
Mitchell joined Boland in 2023 and credits coach Hawies Fourie for helping elevate his game.
“It’s very positive. He helps and supports me a lot,” Mitchell said.
Boland now turn their focus to Saturday’s SA Cup semi-final against Griquas in Kimberley.
“As coach Hawies said, we would like to win the big brother, the Currie Cup,” he said. “But our focus is on the SA Cup right now.”
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Richard Shorey/Gallo Images
The post Boland star Xavier inspired by Uncle Chester appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Boland speedster Xavier Mitchell, whose seven-try blitz stunned Eastern Province at the weekend, hails from a proud rugby family.
The post Boland star Xavier inspired by Uncle Chester appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
