Zach Porthen learning from the best in Bok setup

The 22-year-old featured off the bench in South Africa’s 45-21 victory over England at Ellis Park on Saturday in their opening match of the inaugural Nations Championship, making an immediate impact in the second half. 

Ahead of the clash, Porthen said working alongside seasoned internationals has reinforced the importance of remaining a student of the game.

"In this environment, you are with the best of the best so you are picking at their brains everyday to learn this and that, and then you obviously get better. I feel more competent because of the small things you learn along the way."

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Porthen became the youngest prop of the professional era to make his Springbok debut when he faced Japan last October.

He says training alongside some of the world’s leading front-row players has sharpened his technical ability and mentality.

He says the intensity of Springbok scrum sessions leaves little to chance, with every possible scenario rehearsed long before match day.

According to Porthen, that level of detail ensures the pack is equipped to deal with whatever opposition they face in Test rugby.

Porthen also revealed the players who inspired his journey to the Springbok jersey, naming World Cup-winning prop Frans Malherbe and hooker Bongi Mbonambi among his biggest role models while growing up.

He says he has also long admired Cheslin Kolbe and Eben Etzebeth, not only for their achievements on the field but also for the professionalism and humility they display away from rugby.

"I've always been a big fan of Frans and Bongi, but I've also had role models away from the front row. I've been impressed with Cheslin and Eben, and how they uphold the standards outside of the game."