South African · Cape Town, South Africa · Born 28 October 1993Cheslin Kolbe is a South African wing celebrated for his footwork and pace, winning back-to-back Rugby World Cups in 2019 and 2023.
Cheslin Kolbe was told throughout his junior career that at 1.71 metres he was simply too small to play international rugby — a judgement he answered by scoring in the 2019 World Cup final, delivering the winning try in the 2021 Lions series decider, and lifting a second World Cup with South Africa in 2023. His father, Andrew, was a talented amateur rugby player who never had the chance to turn professional during the apartheid era. Kolbe attended Hoërskool Brackenfell on a scholarship, and honed his speed further as a competitive hurdler, earning South African colours at age-group level. Standing just 1.71 metres tall, Kolbe was frequently told he was too small for top-level rugby, but developed into one of the most electrifying and evasive wingers the sport has produced, renowned for a sidestepping ability that made him nearly impossible to tackle in open space. He made his Springbok debut in 2018 after progressing through Western Province and the Stormers. Kolbe scored a try in South Africa's 2019 World Cup final victory over England, and delivered the winning try in the deciding Test of the 2021 British and Irish Lions series. He won a second World Cup with South Africa in 2023, becoming one of a select group of players to lift the trophy twice. Kolbe won the Top 14 and European Champions Cup with French club Toulouse before moving to Toulon and then Japan's Suntory Sungoliath. He is a cousin of Olympic 400m champion and world record holder Wayde van Niekerk, and remains active in charitable work through the Be The Difference Foundation, tackling poverty in his native Western Cape.
Electric Springbok wing; two-time World Cup winner
How They Played
Kolbe is renowned for his blistering pace, exceptional footwork, and ability to beat defenders in tight spaces despite his relatively small frame. His low center of gravity and agility make him extremely difficult to tackle, while his acceleration allows him to exploit the smallest gaps in defense. He combines his attacking prowess with solid defensive skills and reliable goal-kicking ability.
Lasting Impact
Kolbe has redefined what it means to be a successful winger in modern rugby, proving that smaller players can excel at the highest level through skill and speed rather than just size and power.
Career Honours
- Rugby World Cup winner 2019, 2023
- World Rugby Try of the Year
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Stormers | 2014–2017 | — |
| Stade Toulousain | 2017–2024 | — |
| Western Province | 2013–2015 | — |
| Racing 92 | 2024–present | — |
 South Africa | — | 32 |
South African Athletes