Springbok veteran Branco du Preez has immediately announced his international retirement from sevens rugby. Du Preez leaves the game as the most-capped South African player and ends his career with various records, gold medals and achievements.
The decision by Du Preez comes after South Africa finished fourth in the HSBC Cape Town Sevens tournament. Unfortunately, he could not finish his career with a medal losing to the United States 22-14.
“My time has come to turn a new page and say goodbye to the Blitzboks team,” Du Preez said.
“I am sad to leave but excited about what is to come! I cannot thank this team enough for all of the lessons – every win and loss. Every trial and triumph we’ve faced has shaped me into the player that I am today.”
Announcing his retirement, the stalwart South African thanked many people for his promising career. Not only did he have kind words to say about all the teammates he has played with, but in particular his two former head coaches: Paul Treu and Neil Powell.
“I’d like to thank SA Rugby and my former head coaches, Paul Treu and Neil Powell, for giving me the opportunity to represent my country. Thank you to the Stellenbosch Academy of Sport, which has been a second home to me and, of course, my teammates, current and former. I wish the current team all of the best in the forthcoming tournaments.”
Du Preez ends his career having featured in 85 Sevens Series tournaments and 431 matches. This includes having scored 1447 points, made up of 101 tries and 468 conversions.
A gold medalist in the sport, he debuted in 2010 and has been a mainstay in the South African squad. Twelve years later, he has continued to be an integral part of the team, especially in the leadership position.
Springbok Sevens coach Sandile Ngcobo praised the legend of the sport and former teammate Du Preez.
“Branco du Preez is an unadulterated example of pure technique, heart and his sevens career proves him victorious,” he said.
“My first impression of Branco du Preez was shaped when watching fundamental and principles footage where coach Neil used as him as an example. He made Solomon King, one of the biggest New Zealand players on the sevens circuit at that time, look like a 50kg player. But in reality, King was way above 100kg, compared to ‘Bibo’s’ 78kg.
“It was an honour to have played and won championships with ‘Bibo’.”
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