Bryan Habana

Bryan Gary Habana was born on June 12, 1983, in Johannesburg, South Africa. Habana would go on to become one of the most celebrated rugby union players in the world, known for his speed and try-scoring ability on the wing for the South African national team, the Springboks, as well as various clubs he played for during his career.

Bryan Habana made his debut for the South African national rugby team, the Springboks, on November 20, 2004, against England at Twickenham Stadium in London. Although South Africa lost the match 32-16, Habana had a memorable start to his international career by scoring a try just 28 seconds after coming on as a substitute. This marked the beginning of an illustrious international career.

Bryan Habana played a key role in South Africa's victory in the 2007 Rugby World Cup. The tournament was held in France, and the final took place on October 20, 2007, at Stade de France in Paris. South Africa defeated England 15-6 to claim the title. Habana was one of the standout performers, scoring eight tries during the tournament, which helped him earn the prestigious IRB Player of the Year award.

On October 21, 2007, the International Rugby Board awarded Bryan Habana the prestigious IRB Player of the Year award. This recognition came as a result of Habana's outstanding performance during the 2007 Rugby World Cup, where he scored eight tries. His speed, agility, and ability to score crucial tries made him an invaluable asset to the South African team.

Bryan Habana was part of the South African squad that won the test series against the British and Irish Lions in 2009. The deciding match was held on July 4, 2009, at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg, where the Springboks secured the series with a 28-25 victory. This win was significant as it marked South Africa's first series victory over the Lions since 1998. Habana's contribution was crucial throughout the series.

During the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Bryan Habana became South Africa's leading try-scorer in World Cup history when he scored against Namibia on October 1, 2011. This achievement underlined his pivotal role in the South African squad over the years. Despite South Africa's quarterfinal exit in the tournament, Habana's individual accolades and try-scoring feats were a highlight.

On November 16, 2013, Bryan Habana earned his 100th cap for the South African national rugby team in a match against Wales at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff. This milestone cemented his status as one of the most important players in South African rugby history, known for his incredible speed and try-scoring ability. South Africa won the match 24-15, with Habana playing a crucial role.

During the 2015 Rugby World Cup, Bryan Habana scored a hat-trick of tries against the USA on September 18, 2015, at the Olympic Stadium in London. This performance was crucial in helping South Africa secure a 64-0 victory, and it also saw Habana equal the record for most tries scored in Rugby World Cup history. His athletic prowess was on full display as he showcased his trademark speed and agility.

On November 12, 2016, Bryan Habana scored a try against Italy in Florence, bringing his total international try tally to 67, equaling the record for a South African player. Although South Africa lost the match 20-18, Habana's try highlighted his continual presence as a potent force in international rugby, renowned for his finishing ability and speed on the wing.

Bryan Habana announced his retirement from professional rugby on April 24, 2018. After an illustrious career featuring 124 Test matches for South Africa and scoring 67 tries, Habana decided to hang up his boots. Known for his remarkable speed and ability to score vital tries, Habana left an indelible mark on the sport. He spent his club career with teams such as the Blue Bulls and Toulon.