Paarl Gimnasium’s Markus Muller is the standout name in South African schools rugby, igniting national interest with his prolific form and leadership, writes MARK KEOHANE. 

In his latest TimesLIVE column, Keohane highlights how Muller’s performances last year turned the No 13 jersey into the most discussed in the schools arena.

And recently, how the youngster spearheaded Paarl Gim’s historic win over Grey College in Bloemfontein — their first visit in two decades and Grey’s first home defeat in eight years.

Keohane praises Muller’s remarkable scoring record — over 20 tries this season, including four hat-tricks — drawing comparisons to the late Nick Koster’s legendary tally for Bishops in 2008. He believes Muller has the ability to match or surpass those numbers, with most of the season still ahead.

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For Keohane, Muller’s rise is a glowing endorsement of South Africa’s school rugby system, particularly in the Western Cape, where institutions like Paarl Gim, Paul Roos and Paarl Boys’ High produce world-class talent and command fan bases larger than some professional teams. 

“Markus Muller, captain of Paarl Gimnasium, is making the No 13 jersey the most talked about in schools rugby this year,” he writes.

“Muller is an exceptional player and his 20-plus tries this season includes four hat tricks and three braces. Koster scored 34 tries in his matric year playing for Bishops, and the tally went past 40 with matches in the Craven Week and for South African Schools.

“Muller, with two thirds of the season still to play, can comfortably convert similar numbers.

“Muller, at 18, could be playing for the Junior Springboks in the inaugural Sanzaar Under 20 Rugby Championship being played in Gqeberha. He is that good…”

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