Lock Ruben van Heerden has credited his move to Cape Town for transforming his career.
The 28-year-old makes his Springbok debut in the Nations Championship Test against Wales in Durban on Saturday.
Van Heerden is one of four uncapped players named by Rassie Erasmus for the clash, alongside prop Carlü Sadie, flyhalf Vusi Moyo and winger Jaco Williams.
The towering lock earned his opportunity after being called into the Springbok squad last month when Stormers teammate Salmaan Moerat withdrew with a neck injury. He then impressed for South Africa A against Zimbabwe in Gqeberha to force his way into the Test team.
Now, after years of perseverance, Van Heerden admits the reality of becoming a Springbok is only just sinking in.
“It’s pretty surreal at this stage,” he said. “I think everyone walks a different path, has a different journey, so for me at this stage I’m not trying to overthink anything.
“I’m just grateful for the opportunity and hope to make the most of it when it comes on Saturday.”
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Representing the Springboks has long been the enforcer’s ultimate ambition, but he says the key has always been to focus on what he can control.
“It’s always been a goal of mine [to become a Springbok]. You just try and do your best and control the controllables.”
Van Heerden also pointed to his move from the Sharks to the Stormers as the turning point in his career.
After showing early promise in Durban, the lock has flourished in Cape Town under John Dobson, winning the Vodacom URC and becoming one of the competition’s most consistent performers.
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“I think it did,” Van Heerden said when asked whether the change of scenery had benefited him.
“Obviously I’ve got great memories from the Sharks, I was still quite young when I was playing there.
“But I think the change of scenery going to Cape Town and the trust that was shown in me by the coaching staff really helped me become the player I am today.”
Ruben van Heerden may not always grab the headlines, but that’s exactly what makes him such an interesting Bok prospect.
Lineouts, tackles, carries, physicality, work rate and mobility — he brings a bit of everything, and that kind of all-round lock is gold in a Rassie squad.… pic.twitter.com/omW8741r4W
— SA Rugby magazine (@SARugbymag) July 15, 2026
Photo: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images
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Lock Ruben van Heerden has credited his move to Cape Town for transforming his career.
The post Ruben revved up for Bok baptism appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
