Springbok tighthead Thomas du Toit says Ox Nche’s historic World Rugby Player of the Year nomination is long-overdue recognition.
Nche became the first prop to make the shortlist since the inception of the award in 2001, and Du Toit – who has packed down beside him several times last year and this season – could not hide his pride.
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“Ox is a special person. He’s an incredible rugby player and I’m very grateful that there’s some recognition going his way,” Du Toit said. “I think everyone understands the type of player he is and how well he plays the game, but to get this type of recognition is special. I’m very grateful for him, very glad for him.”
Asked whether he thinks Nche should get the award, Du Toit didn’t hesitate.
“If I could have it my way, I’d obviously have him win it.”
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The tighthead also had a laugh when asked if he might seek his own nomination next year.
“I’m not going to push my luck. This is the first prop … I don’t know when the next one will be!”
While Nche’s rise has dominated headlines, Du Toit’s own form surge has come on the back of two-and-a-half seasons in Europe, where he has been anchoring the scrum for Bath.
He describes the experience as transformative.
“For my personal game, it’s definitely been a game-changer,” he said. “It’s been exceptional and I’ve learned so much over the last two and a half years.”
Du Toit highlighted the value of adapting to northern-hemisphere conditions.
“Playing in that type of weather, week in and week out, is important – especially for a game like this,” he explained.
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He added that the relentless intensity of the English Premiership has sharpened his competitiveness.
“It’s a very tough competition. It feels like you play a final every weekend, just because the teams are so good and everything is so closely knit together.”
That weekly grind, Du Toit believes, gives South Africans in Europe an edge in Test rugby.
“Everyone who’s played in the Premiership feels it’s advantageous when these types of games come up.”
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Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
