Alulutho Tshakweni

Few loose forwards in the South African game measure their worth as clearly at the breakdown as Alulutho Tshakweni. Born on 26 September 1998, the Bulls flanker came through the province's renowned development pathways and has established himself as a combative presence in the loose. He is valued for a relentless work rate over the ball, where his timing and strength make him a genuine turnover threat. Tshakweni operates in the mould of a classic fetcher, hunting opposition possession at the ruck while shouldering a heavy defensive load. His tackling is robust and his motor rarely drops, giving the Bulls pack the abrasive, ball-disrupting quality that modern back-row play demands. Tireless in the loose and willing in contact, he adds grit and dynamism to the forward effort. As he pushes for greater involvement in one of South Africa's most competitive squads, his identity is unmistakable: a hard-edged breakdown specialist who measures his contribution in turnovers won and tackles made rather than headline moments.