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South Africa’s most-capped Springbok Sevens player, Branco du Preez, has announced his retirement from international sevens rugby.
SA Rugby said he will leave the Blitzboks with a bouquet of career records, gold medals, and highlights.
“Du Preez made the decision after the HSBC Cape Town Sevens, where he represented South Africa in his 85th HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series tournament, a record for the Springbok Sevens which places him eighth overall in the history of the World Series,” according to a statement.
He played in 431 matches and scored 1447 points, including 101 tries, a career-high 468 conversions and a drop goal in a career that saw him clinch 24 tournament wins and three World Series gold medals.
Du Preez also has a Commonwealth Games gold medal in his bag.
The 468 conversions, a Blitzbok record, is the fifth most in World Series history and his 431 matches played are fourth on the all-time list.
The 32-year-old made his Springbok Sevens debut in Wellington in 2010 and has been a Blitzbok stalwart ever since.
“My time has come to turn a new page and say goodbye to the Blitzboks team,” said Du Preez.
“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.
Springbok Sevens coach Sandile Ngcobo praised his former team-mate and player.
“Everyone loves a good underdog story and the beauty of rugby is that there is a time and place for everyone, regardless of size,” said Ngcobo.
