Former Springbok great Joggie Jansen dies aged 78

South African rugby is mourning the death of former Springbok great Joggie Jansen, who passed away on Sunday morning at the age of 78.

Jansen represented the Springboks 10 times between 1970 and 1972 and scored one try during his international career. He remains particularly remembered for a powerful tackle on New Zealand’s Wayne Cotterill during the All Blacks’ tour of South Africa in 1970.

His death brings an end to the life of a player who made his mark both in Test rugby and at provincial level. Although his Springbok career consisted of 10 Tests, Jansen’s performances ensured he became a well-known figure in South African rugby.

The tackle on Cotterill is regarded as one of the defining moments of Jansen’s international career. It came during New Zealand’s 1970 tour of South Africa, when the Springboks faced the All Blacks in a period of significant rivalry between the two countries.

Jansen also enjoyed success with Free State in the domestic game. He was part of the team that won the Currie Cup in 1976, with Free State claiming a memorable 33-16 victory over Western Province in the final.

That result stands as an important moment in Free State’s provincial rugby history, and Jansen was among the players who helped secure the title. His involvement in the triumph added a major domestic honour to a career that had already included representing the Springboks.

Jansen’s international appearances came between 1970 and 1972, while his provincial career continued to bring him recognition in South Africa. His contribution to Free State’s 1976 Currie Cup-winning side ensured that his legacy extended beyond his time in the national team.

He is survived in the memory of South African rugby through those 10 Tests, his single Springbok try, the celebrated tackle on Cotterill and his role in Free State’s victory over Western Province.

Jansen’s death at 78 has prompted a period of mourning across South African rugby, with his career remembered for both his service to the Springboks and his contribution to provincial success.