Naas Botha

Born on the 27th of February, 1958, and while still at school, Naas represented his province in Rugby, Baseball and Softball. At an International level, he played Rugby and SA u/16 Baseball 1972/73

His provincial debut came in 1977 when NE Transvaal played SE Transvaal. In all, he played 179 (127 as Captain) for Northerns.
His International Debut was 1980 ‘ SA vs. South America (Jaguars) and the number of tests for which he was capped was 28 (8 as captain). He captained the springboks in 1992, scoring a total of 365 points.

His other international representation included : World XV (1986 & 1992), French, Italian and American Barbarians, American Football (1983 &84) and Rovigo in Italy (6 years).

Other Interesting stats on Naas

• Received the Victor Ludorum Award for Athletics in High School;
• First player to score 300+ points in a season;
• Youngest player in Currie cup Final ‘ 19 in 1977;
• Youngest winning Captain in Currie Cup Final ‘ 22 in 1980;
• Only player to score 2 hat-tricks of drops in a test; 1980 vs. Jaguars, 1981 vs. Ireland;
• Most drop goals in first-class Rugby ‘ 172;
• Only player ever to be chosen as SA Rugby Player of the Year on 4 occasions ‘ 1979, 1981, 1985 and 1987.

His other interests include Golf and movies. He presently works on SuperSport as TV Commentator and Analyst, and he is a Director of a Sports Management Group and business entrepreneur.