A Lions-Sharks derby in Durban on Saturday served as the latest evaluation ground for potential successors to Pieter-Steph du Toit, a Springbok lock and flanker currently playing for Toyota Verblitz in Japan, as South African rugby assesses options for the pivotal blindside flanker position.
The match spotlighted Ruan Venter, Vincent Tshituka, and Batho Hlekani, all vying to fill the void left by du Toit’s continued absence from the domestic scene. Du Toit, a two-time World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year (2019 and 2024), remains a key figure for the national team, having been instrumental in South Africa’s 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup victories, and was named man of the match in the 2023 final against New Zealand.
Du Toit began his professional career with the Sharks in 2012, before moving to the Stormers in 2016 and subsequently joining Toyota Verblitz in 2022. He attended Hoërskool Swartland in Malmesbury, a school known for its rugby program. His versatility has allowed him to excel as both a lock and a flanker, becoming known for his stamina, defensive prowess, and tackling ability.
Saturday’s derby followed a pattern of recent matches being used to assess players for the role previously dominated by du Toit. A previous contest between the Stormers and Sharks saw Pieter-Steph du Toit deliver a notable 80-minute performance, while Bulls captain Duane Vermeulen also stood out in a separate match against the Lions, despite his team’s defeat. The Stormers won their match against the Sharks 25-22, while the Lions defeated the Bulls 34-33.
Springboks captain Siya Kolisi also featured in the Sharks versus Stormers match, playing 60 minutes and demonstrating improved match fitness, signaling his readiness for potential involvement in the upcoming British & Irish Lions series. Du Toit’s ability to consistently deliver high-impact performances, even after a six-month layoff, has further underscored his importance to the national team.
Du Toit has accumulated 86 caps for the Springboks as of October 2025, and has received multiple South African Men’s Rugby Player of the Year awards in 2016, 2018, and 2019. He was also named the world’s best player in 2025 by Midi Olympique. His continued success in Japan with Toyota Verblitz maintains his position as a leading contender for selection in future Springboks squads.
