JJ Scheepers

A combative back-row forward, JJ Scheepers has built his reputation at the Sharks as a relentless breakdown operator and tireless defender. Operating primarily as a flanker, he thrives in the contact areas, hunting turnovers and adding ballast to the Sharks' forward effort across the Currie Cup and the United Rugby Championship. His high work rate and willingness to make the hard tackles have made him a dependable contributor in the back row, the type of forward who is often busiest in the parts of the game that go unnoticed. Within the Sharks pack he offers defensive leadership and a steady supply of disruptive work at the ruck, the kind of unglamorous graft that underpins any successful forward unit. Competing in two demanding competitions sharpens those qualities week to week, and Scheepers has shown he can hold his own in the physical exchanges that define both tournaments. As he continues to establish himself at senior level, he remains focused on rounding out his all-round game, improving his impact in attack and cementing a regular role in one of South African rugby's most competitive squads.