Springbok siblings Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse will fulfill their late father’s final wish when they play alongside each other in the rugby team’s game against Wales.
The occasion is the first time that the Breidbach brothers have played in the starting squad together. To make it even more special, Jaden will play in the number nine jersey, while Jordan will play at ten.
The Boks will face the Dragons in the final test match of the year on Saturday, 23 November, at Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
JADEN AND JORDAN HENDRIKSE TO FULFILL THEIR FATHER’S LAST WISHES
According to Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse’s mother, Joleen, it was always their dream to play for the Springboks.
It was also the wish of her late husband, Brian Hendrikse, that they play together on the national team.
While Brian – who was a sports administrator – got to see his son Jaden being called up to the Springboks in 2021, he died before Jaden could receive his green and gold colours earlier this year.
Brian, who died in June 2023, said his dream was to see his sons play scrumhalf and flyhalf on the same team and then play in the Boks together.
Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse – the 36th set of Springbok brothers – have been paired at halfback for the season’s final Test against Wales. Image: SA Rugby website
A year after his death, the first part of his wish became a reality when Jordan Hendrikse signed with the Sharks, where he played alongside Jordan.
Brian’s final wish will now come true as the siblings gear up to play in their first Springboks game together – in the starting squad!
Speaking to Daily Dispatch, Joleen said of her son’s achievements: “We are proud of what they have achieved. They have worked very hard, from playing in Breidbach to being in the Springboks. It is something they always told me and their father they would like to achieve.”
The emotional mom added: “They must enjoy the game on Saturday, and always remember it’s about the team, and they are playing for the country”.
RASSIE: ‘THEY DESERVE THIS CHANCE’
Meanwhile, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus revealed he was happy to give Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse a chance to play together this weekend.
He told Supersport: “I think it’s special when a 9 and 10 are brothers. They deserve this chance. And that’s the most important.
“Hopefully, they have that special link that we hope they find on Saturday.”
He added: “We’re glad for them. The family thing is a warm and fuzzy feeling”.