Cheslin Kolbe – Sidestepping The Odds

By Cheslin Kolbe with David O’Sullivan

Cheslin Kolbe: Sidestepping the Odds offers readers an intimate account of one of South Africa’s most recognisable rugby figures. Kolbe wrote the book with award-winning writer and broadcaster David O’Sullivan.

The memoir traces Kolbe’s journey from Kraaifontein to international rugby. As a young boy, he was consistently the smallest player on the rugby field. Coaches questioned his capabilities, while selectors overlooked him because they considered him too light and fragile for top-level rugby. However, Kolbe refused to allow physical size to determine his future. Instead, he sought bigger and stronger opponents.

The size of courage

Every setback became an opportunity to develop greater speed, awareness and determination. Consequently, Cheslin Kolbe: Sidestepping the Odds presents courage as something that extends beyond physical strength.

The memoir follows his career through Western Province, the Stormers, Toulouse, Toulon and Japan. It ultimately reaches the highest level of international rugby with the Springboks. At 32, Kolbe is a double World Cup winner, European champion and double French champion. He also received the 2024 SA Men’s Rugby Player of the Year award.

Yet Cheslin Kolbe: Sidestepping the Odds goes beyond sporting achievements. The memoir explores the influence of family, community and faith on Kolbe’s life. His story also confronts crime, drugs and violence. These experiences add depth to a sporting journey that might otherwise focus only on trophies and accolades.

Kolbe explains that he wrote the book to inspire people who have been told they are not enough. His central message encourages readers to challenge expectations and refuse to let circumstances determine their futures.

Ultimately, Cheslin Kolbe: Sidestepping the Odds promises more than a rugby memoir. It offers a story about resilience, identity and refusing to accept limitations imposed by others.

About the authors

Cheslin Kolbe is a celebrated South African rugby player and Springbok icon. Born in Kraaifontein, he has represented Western Province, the Stormers, Toulouse, Toulon and clubs in Japan. A double Rugby World Cup winner, European champion and double French champion, Kolbe was named the 2024 SA Men’s Rugby Player of the Year. Cheslin Kolbe: Sidestepping the Odds is his debut memoir.

David O’Sullivan is an award-winning South African journalist, writer and broadcaster. His career spans major media platforms including SABC TV, Capital Radio, 702, Hot919, PowerFM and KayaFM. He is also the co-author, with Rassie Erasmus, of the bestselling memoir Rassie: Stories of Life and Rugby. He collaborated with Kolbe to bring his life story to the page.