Luan Giliomee’s remarkable rise through the South African rugby ranks shows no signs of slowing down, writes MORNÉ ESBEN.
The versatile former Sharks back, has already packed more experiences into the 2025-26 season than most players manage in several seasons, representing the Junior Springboks, the Blitzboks and the Sharks before now earning a place in the SA A side to face Zimbabwe on Saturday.
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Selected at fullback for the curtain-raiser to the Springboks’ clash against the Barbarians in Gqeberha, Giliomee has another opportunity to showcase why he is regarded as one of South African rugby’s brightest young prospects.
Despite the growing attention surrounding his performances, the talented utility back insists his focus remains firmly on self-improvement.
“I’ve been privileged enough to have been in a lot of environments this year,” he said. “As a team, we have some standards that have been set for ourselves and obviously I have some goals in mind, but it’s just to perform and to showcase the things I’ve learned in the past few weeks – learning from all the guys and the coaches.”
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The rapid rise has inevitably brought increased scrutiny, but Giliomee believes staying grounded is crucial.
“For me it’s just about focusing on my process, focusing on the things I have to do to get better. The media and the outside noise will always be there and it’s going to be there for the next stars coming up.
“I think it’s just to focus on yourself, have the right systems around you, especially here where I can ask for help from anybody and they’re all so helpful.”
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One of Giliomee’s biggest assets is his versatility.
Capable of covering multiple positions across the backline, he credits his sevens experience for helping shape important areas of his game.
“I can cover quite a few positions, but for this weekend I’m playing 15 so my focus will be on the position I’m given.
“I think sevens helped me develop various aspects like defence and tracking, and it translates so well to fifteens.”
Coach Mzwandile Stick on the South Africa ‘A’ side he’s picked to face Zimbabwe and the excitement around the youngsters getting a chance 🇿🇦#SSRugby pic.twitter.com/dttXTJtkIs
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) June 17, 2026
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
