So who is Junior Pokomela

A humble, respectful and loving young man who has a passion for rugby. These are a few words used to describe him.

A talented youngster who WILL feature at the 2019 World Cup; a bold statement by one of the youngster’s admirers. Easy to talk to when someone needs a listening ear, an easy going champion with a deep love for his family. Junior Pokomela is the next big star in South African rugby. The talented back rower was at hand to win Craven Week with Eastern Province. Junior went on to represent SA Schools, play in the u19 Currie Cup for EP where he made history in winning the tournament with most of the talented bunch from the year before. A leader and player who is South Africa’s version of Kieran Read. A rugby intellect, while he has the physical presence, you will find him maneuvering the space as though he is a winger. He possesses deft hands, athleticism, is a reliable option at the line out and has the ability to throw the audacious offload in the tightest situations. An all rounded player with a bright future. One of the players to watch when the Super Rugby season kicks off. He will be sure to attain higher honors in the year…

Sipato Junior Pokomela making the hit above.

1.9m

99kg

19 years old

You have had quite a meteoric rise in the last few years. From winning Craven Week “final” to winning the u19  Currie Cup and now, in the Super Rugby squad. How has it been? What have you gone through to get there?

It's been amazing and it is an honor being part of both successful teams and representing my Union. It took a lot hard work and determination to achieve what we achieved, because Eastern Province was always underrated. Finding myself in the Super Rugby squad came as a huge surprise to me. I didn’t expect it but I'm just going to go full out and take the opportunity with both hands. It's been amazing just being around the senior players. I have been enjoying every single moment here.

The Union is surrounded by several problems and the media attention is predominantly negative. How have you managed to keep a clear head or turn down offers from several Unions after a mammoth 2015?

I'm extremely happy here at the Southern Kings, so leaving wasn't even part of my plan and to be honest we (the academy boys) weren't really affected by the situation that was happening at Kings. I am sympathetic towards the senior players that had to experience the hardships. 

What would you say are your strengths as a player?

I would say that my strengths include discipline, adapting in a team environment, commendable listening skills and being a quick learner.

Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I see myself having finished my degree, playing for the Southern Kings and hopefully having a couple of Springbok caps in my name.

You have been training with the experienced ‘Vleis’ Engelbrecht. What has the big number eight taught you about the role of a number 8?

I look up to him a lot and he’s a very nice and funny guy, although, when I first met him he seemed so intimidating ,but so far he’s basically taught me the small things that I didn't know about my position and I'm looking forward in learning more from him .

Who did you look up to growing up?

I looked up to the likes of Siya Kolisi and Richie McCaw. Those two really inspire me. 

What are your thoughts on the recent reports on poaching players between schools and the use of substances at school boy level? Did you ever see any suggestions this exists or of the damage it has on the game?

I believe that opportunities present themselves at the right time for the right reasons. It is up to the players’ discretion as to which opportunities to take. I firmly stand behind the use of legal substances and supplements to enhance performance and that the use of illegal substances is detrimental to the players’ health and future.

Are you looking forward to the South African under 20 squad announcement? The chances of a call up are very high. Do you believe you have what it takes to be part of the team?

Yes, I am looking forward to it but I believe in showing my worth and ability through hard work instead of publicizing it. If the coaches and selectors believe that the way I play is up to standard and that I can get the job done then I will continue with my hard work & not disappoint them.

You were easily one of the best number 8’s in the u19 Currie Cup. Which other number 8’s did you rate highly? How did the u19 Currie Cup relegation candidates manage to win the Currie Cup?

There were a lot of good players during the tournament, but my main aim for the season was to do well for my team and the rest would follow. The special thing about our team is that we didn't have any superstars and we bonded very well as team. We worked very hard during the offseason and we give credit to the coaching staff for their hard work and determination.

 What do you do away from rugby?

I spend a lot of time with my girlfriend, friends and family. I enjoy playing video games, watching movies and reading rugby autobiographies.

 One thing we don’t know or expect from you?

I was in the choir in Primary School and I got kicked out because I “lacked talent”.