Bongi Mbonambi: Why the Springbok veteran isn’t ready to ‘leave the dancefloor’ just yet

Bongi Mbonambi will go down as one of the greatest Springbok hookers in history—a ferocious competitor who played a pivotal role in South Africa’s back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs.

However, at 35, the bullocking No. 2 has seen his minutes in the green and gold restricted over the last few seasons. His omission from several Springbok squads in 2025 suggested that an illustrious international career might be drawing to a close. Yet, with the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia just two years away, the veteran front-rower isn’t ready to hang up his boots—or, as he puts it, "leave the dancefloor."

“Once you lose that sense of care for something, you will be the first to know when it’s time to leave the dancefloor,” Mbonambi told a Sharks media conference on Tuesday, ahead of their United Rugby Championship (URC) clash against the Stormers in Cape Town this Saturday.

While a new generation of hookers is emerging "thick and fast," Mbonambi explained why he believes he can still deliver on the big stage.

“Personally, it’s my competitive edge. I’m very competitive, but most players are—especially if you are playing rugby in South Africa,” Mbonambi said. “You can’t just aim for average or mediocre; if you do, you are quickly left behind.

“Another vital factor is the love for the game. You look at how rugby has changed over the years, the teams you’ve been part of, and the memories and mates you’ve made. It’s a special career to have. When you do something you love, it doesn’t feel like work. This sport humbles you now and then, but as long as you enjoy it and stay competitive, you can do well in this line of work.”

As a senior figure in the Sharks' setup, Mbonambi has embraced a mentoring role under interim coach JP Pietersen, helping the next generation navigate the rigours of top-flight rugby. The atmosphere within the Durban franchise appears to have lifted since Pietersen took over from John Plumtree, with senior players finding their form and youngsters playing with renewed confidence.

“JP has given us certain roles within the leadership group. For me and the other senior players, it’s about ensuring everyone buys into the plan and stays aligned with what the coaching staff wants,” Mbonambi added.

“We also have to help the youngsters so they don’t feel all that pressure on their shoulders. You aren't playing this sport by yourself; it’s a whole squad effort. Once you embrace that, everyone's job becomes a lot easier.”