Who is the ex-Springbok's son who hopes to play for All Blacks?

06/30/2024 02:18 AM

In a unique story that is sure to catch the attention of Springbok rugby fans, Jordi Viljoen – a former Junior All Blacks player – has now signed a senior deal with the Hurricanes ahead of next Super Rugby Pacific season.

After spending last year on a National Development Contract, Viljoen was included in the Hurricanes' wider training group in 2024. He went on to make a debut against the Western Force this year, and how now been rewarded with a senior contract on a full-time basis, which he described as "an absolute privilege" after committing through to the end of 2026.

So, who is Viljoen, the son of a former Springbok who now hopes to play for the All Blacks?

The talented scrumhalf is the son of ex-Springboks scrumhalf Joggie Viljoen Jnr. (who featured in three non-Test tour games in the 1990s) and the grandson of Joggie Viljoen Snr, who also represented South Africa back in the 1970s.

Viljoen was born in Pretoria, South Africa, but relocated to New Zealand as a child, with his father joining Manawatu in 2007 after a stint with the Hurricanes in 2000.

Viljoen attended Palmerston North Boys’ High School and Hasting Boys High School, where he was selected for New Zealand Schools. He also represented New Zealand U20 in 2023.

This paved the way for his selection in the Hurricanes’ wider squad, and he went on to make a handful of noteworthy appearances before now signing his first full-time contract.

"Very special for my family, especially Dad playing for the same club. Everyone stayed up late to watch the game, so super happy,” he commented after his debut.

After getting his first taste of Super Rugby, the 20-year-old confirmed that he would not follow his father and grandfather's footsteps in terms of wanting to play for the Springboks. Instead, his allegiance is now fully with the All Blacks.

"100% I'd love to play for the All Blacks," he said in a recent interview. "It's been a dream ever since moving here. New Zealand has given me a lot of opportunities in terms of rugby and living a safe and happy life to be honest."

In another standout connection, legendary former All Blacks scrumhalf Aaron Smith is a family friend.

"When Nuggy (Smith) was at Fielding Ag [Fielding High School] and Manawatū, my dad would take him for training, and we were really close with their family, and we have a personal bond,” he commented.

Viljoen looking forward to the journey that lies ahead

"It's a massive blessing for me to sign with the Hurricanes, it's been an amazing season on and off the field. To be able to follow in my dad's footsteps and pave my own path has been an absolute privilege," Viljoen said in a statement.

"Coming through the Hurricanes pathway, this has always been a goal of mine, so to be able to commit for the next two seasons is awesome."