Steven Kitshoff, the formidable former Springbok prop, is much loved on field and off for his discipline and determination – and for his humility, honesty and warmth. Now he takes us beyond the bruising scrums and World Cup trophies to reflect on a rugby career defined by an unwavering commitment to what is best for the team.

This book charts his journey from schoolboy prodigy in the Western Cape to captaining the Stormers and reaching the pinnacle of international rugby as part of the team that won the World Cup twice in a row under Siya Kolisi’s leadership.

The big man the fans call ‘Kitsie’ and the ‘Spicy Plum’ delves into the magic of the Bomb-Squad strategy, his forced retirement due to a devastating neck injury and finding purpose after rugby. Some of the biggest names in world rugby, including Rassie Erasmus and Tendai ‘The Beast’ Mtawarira, also give their personal recollections of a man they all admire.

Written by Michael Vlismas – author of the bestselling Elon Musk and Just a Moment, the memoir of Schalk Burger Snr – Kitsie is honest and inspiring. An unforgettable memoir.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

STEVEN KITSHOFF is a former Springbok rugby player, member of the legendary Bomb Squad and a two-time World Cup winner. He is also the former captain of the Stormers and co-founder of the Bomb Squad brand, a speaker, podcaster and rugby commentator. He lives in Cape Town with his wife, Aimee.

MICHAEL VLISMAS is an award-winning journalist and author of eight books, including biographies of Elon Musk, Gary Player, Schalk Burger Snr and Tim Noakes. He lives in Somerset West near Cape Town with his wife and two sons.

'Kitsie: Memoir of a bomb-squad Bok' is published by Jonathan Ball Publishers