By: Natasha Archary

Springboks player, Makazole Mapimpi will miss the clash against the All Blacks on Saturday, 07 September as his wife is expected to deliver their first child.
News of the 34-year-old winger’s marital status and soon-to-be title as a father was revealed by Bok coach, Rassie Erasmus in a media conference this week.
Erasmus shared how the decision to pick the side is determined, saying there are a lot of factors to consider to ensure the best and most equipped are chosen to deliver a stellar performance to win.
One of the factors with the team selection for the upcoming All Blacks fixture is that Makazole Mapimpi’s wife is giving birth and Erasmus said they did not want to keep him from being present when she does.
A win at all costs is the reason Rassie Erasmus has made the changes he has to the Springbok team. Winning the Freedom Cup is everything to the team right now.pic.twitter.com/Cv8SxYDOCK
— Stephen (@SteviePSport) September 5, 2024
While many were surprised to learn that Mapimpi is a dedicated family man, those who have been following the player’s journey were thrilled to learn he was starting a family of his own.
In 2019, when the rest of the Bok players had pictures of their family on their World Cup jerseys, Makazole Mapimpi only had pictures of himself.
Mapimpi had no immediate family, as they had all passed away and his story was shared in Chasing the Sun 1, and the documentary revealed that the Bok star was raised by his grandmother after his mom’s passing.
Makazole Mapimpi maintains his privacy and has not shared any details about his wife on his social media.
Also read: LIVESTREAM: Thabiso Enid Sikwane celebrated with vibrant memorial and funeral service



