Aranos Coetzee will bring up his 150th cap for the Cheetahs on Friday, and the veteran tighthead prop is still relishing every scrum.
The 38-year-old is set to reach the milestone in the SA Cup clash against the Pumas in Bloemfontein, capping a career defined by durability, loyalty and old-school grit.
Reflecting on the toughest tests of his career, Coetzee pointed to one familiar opponent – Ox Nche.
“Old Ox was always a great guy for me to scrum against, and I think he gave me the toughest challenges.”
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The two heavies went head-to-head regularly in training during Nche’s time in Bloemfontein, sharpening each other in sessions that clearly left a lasting impression.
While Coetzee has packed down against some of the game’s best, one moment still stands above the rest – the Cheetahs’ 2016 Currie Cup Final triumph.
“That was the highlight for me, with the stadium packed to capacity.”
It remains a defining memory in a career that has also taken him to three Rugby World Cups with Namibia – a journey that, for now, has reached its end after the side failed to qualify for the next tournament.
“It’s sad, I would have loved to do it, but you also give other countries a chance. I’ve had my three tournaments, so it’s alright.”
Despite his age and the physical toll of the position, Coetzee has no intention of calling time just yet.
“I don’t really have plans, I’ll take it as it comes. I think the right time will come when a guy has to make that decision – I still feel good and I’m still enjoying it.”
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Cheetahs coach Frans Steyn knows exactly what that means for the team. More value from one of their most experienced campaigners.
“I don’t know how long Nos will still play, but we’re going to milk as much out of him as we can. I think he knows that.”
Photo: Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images
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