Ernst van Rhyn, born on 19 September 1997 in Bellville, South Africa, is a talented South African rugby union player. He attended Paarl Gymnasium, where his rugby journey began to take shape. Van Rhyn's impressive performances led to his representation of Western Province at the 2015 U18 Craven Week, and he was subsequently selected for the SA Schools side that same year.
One year later, while representing Western Province U19, the robust lock caught the attention of selectors and earned a place in the Springbok U20 side for the 2016 Junior World Cup. Standing at 1.94 meters (6 feet 4+1/2 inches) tall and weighing 115 kilograms (254 pounds), van Rhyn possesses the physicality and skill set to excel in the lock and flank positions.
Van Rhyn continued to make strides in his rugby career, representing Maties in the 2017 Varsity Cup. His leadership qualities and performance on the field earned him the captaincy of the SA U20s, who competed in the 2017 Junior World Cup held in Georgia.
Since then, van Rhyn has continued to impress at the senior level. He joined Western Province in 2018 and has made 41 appearances for the team, contributing 15 points. As of the latest available information in July 2022, he remains a key member of the Western Province squad. Additionally, he has been a valuable asset to the Stormers since 2019, earning 37 appearances and scoring 5 points for the team.
Ernst van Rhyn's journey from representing his school and province to excelling at the national U20 level demonstrates his dedication, skill, and potential. With his physical attributes and versatility in playing both lock and flank positions, he continues to make an impact on the rugby field for the Stormers and Western Province, representing the next generation of South African rugby talent.
Ernst van Rhyn will leave the Stormers to join English club Sale Sharks ahead of the 2023/24 season. The versatile Van Rhyn, who can play lock or loose forward, has signed a three-year deal with the English Premiership side.
KG (19/05/2023)
Career
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Sale Sharks No 5 Lock |
2023 - present |
 |
Stellenbosch Maties No 5 Lock |
2017 - 2017 |
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South Africa U20's No 5 Lock |
2016 - 2017 |
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Stormers Blindside Flanker |
2019 - 2023 |
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Western Province No 5 Lock |
2018 - 2024 |
