Celebrate world champion Springbok Victor Matfield’s birthday with a look back on his illustrious career.
There has been no greater lineout exponent in the professional game than Matfield, who turned 48 on Sunday.
For the entirety of his career, Matfield ruled the air and tormented opposition jumpers and hookers. His very presence in the Springbok second row – often alongside his Bulls ‘brother’ Bakkies Botha – gave South Africa a significant mental advantage at the lineout.
One only has to look at the Springboks’ 2007 World Cup-winning campaign to fully appreciate his impact, his efforts ensuring South Africa never lost a lineout throughout the tournament.
Matfield also won the Tri-Nations twice (2004 and 2009) and played a crucial role in the 2009 series victory against the British & Irish Lions.
In 2010, Matfield became the third Bok to join the centurion club and the first to win in his 100th Test. He ended his Test career with 127 caps, and was the most-capped player in Springbok history from 2015 until 2024 when another lock, Eben Etzebeth, surpassed him.
Matfield is also a Bulls legend, having captained them to three Super Rugby titles (2007, 2009 and 2010) while also winning the Currie Cup three times (2002, 2004 and 2009).
Photo: Greg Wood/AFP
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