The path to international rugby for Benhard Janse van Rensburg, a new cap for England, began on a remote farm in the South African bush, far removed from traditional rugby academies. His upbringing in Makoppa, Limpopo, was marked by challenges such as frequent farm work, a small rural school, and the constant presence of wildlife, including crocodiles and snakes.
Janse van Rensburg's father, Gerhard, described the farm life as one where children learn by doing. "My boys have worked on the farm since they were 4ft tall. They drive the tractors, they work with cattle, they feed the animals," Gerhard said. Benhard himself learned to drive a truck into town at age 11 and was involved in all aspects of farm labor, a background that his father believes forged his mental toughness. "If something breaks, you must fix it. That’s life. You can’t be negative about it," Gerhard explained.
The family farm faces economic difficulties, with low prices for crops like cotton and maize, and high costs for diesel and fertilizer. Benhard's financial support from his professional rugby career abroad has been crucial for the farm's survival, helping to purchase irrigation pivots.
His early education took place at a small farm school where he was one of only three children in his year. The school's rugby team consistently lost, an experience that honed his tackling skills. "They always lost. They were always defending. That’s how he learned how to tackle!" his mother, Zanie, recounted. His father chose not to send him to a larger city school, prioritizing a different kind of upbringing.
Despite the isolation and the often-perilous roads, which can be subject to police searches and are prone to accidents, the Janse van Rensburg family remained deeply connected to their rural life. The journey to their farm, situated some 40 kilometers from the nearest town, Thabazimbi, involves navigating unkempt roads and passing through landscapes dotted with wildlife.
Benhard's transition to university marked a significant shift, as it was the first time he experienced being part of a winning team. "When Benhard went to university, it was the first time ever that he was in a team that won matches," Zanie said. "He had spent his whole life just tackling and suddenly he looked like a king on the pitch."
The family has a strong sense of pride in Benhard's journey, acknowledging the slim odds of someone from their background reaching international rugby. "The chances of someone from here playing international rugby are one in a million. He has made his own path. We are so proud," Gerhard stated. While the possibility of him playing against South Africa might arise, his family has pledged their support for England. "If Benhard plays against the Springboks, I promise you I will be shouting for England. So will my five sisters," his grandfather, Ben, declared.
Benhard's brother, HJ, who is also pursuing a rugby career, shared that Benhard was approached by the South African national team, the Springboks, but felt more clarity and consistent communication from England's coaching staff.
Life on the farm, despite its hardships and the ever-present dangers of venomous snakes and other wildlife, is viewed by Gerhard as a form of paradise. The family's resilience, forged through generations of farming and overcoming adversity, is a testament to their character and Benhard's ability to adapt and succeed on the international stage.