KITSIE - Memoir of a Bomb-Squad Bok

by Steven Kitshoff, Michael Vlismas (Primary Contributor)

Steven Kitshoff, the formidable former Springbok prop, is much loved on field and off for his discipline and determination - and for his humility, honesty and warmth. Now he takes us beyond the bruising scrums and World Cup trophies to reflect on a rugby career defined by an unwavering commitment to what is best for the team.



This book charts his journey from schoolboy prodigy in the Western Cape to captaining the Stormers and reaching the pinnacle of international rugby as part of the team that won the World Cup twice in a row under Siya Kolisi's leadership.



The big man the fans call 'Kitsie' and the 'Spicy Plum' delves into the magic of the Bomb-Squad strategy, his forced retirement due to a devastating neck injury and finding purpose after rugby. Some of the biggest names in world rugby, including Rassie Erasmus and Tendai 'The Beast' Mtawarira, also give their personal recollections of a man they all admire.

Genres: Biography

226 pages, Paperback

Published September 7, 2026

Reviews

[JD · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

I have always been a fan of Steven Kitshoff and he will go down as one of the greatest props in Springbok history. His career ended too soon with his neck injury, and he would certainly still be in the Bok squad if it was not for him. Saying all this, his book is unfortunately not as good as books from other Springbok players I have read. His upbringing was pretty normal, except for some bullying in primary school for having red hair, which he later embraced as it is a big part of his identity in SA. He was a teen prodigy going to one of the top schools in the country that has produced the most Springboks of any school in SA. It was always expected that he would make the step up to the Springboks, though it just took him a bit longer than anticipated. He achieved everything a South African player would want, and his career has been amazing. I enjoy him now as a rugby pundit, and he really knows his stuff.

Though it the book was not so good for me, I think it will be an inspirational book for teens and young adults, as it shows his hard work and commitment to his profession, and how that got him to the top of his game. Still a good and worthwhile read.