Both men followed almost identical rugby paths, from HTS Louis Botha to the Shimlas, the Cheetahs, and ultimately the Springboks. The main difference is that Nché moved to the Sharks after winning the Currie Cup twice in Bloemfontein, while Mohoje stayed loyal to the Free State throughout his career, racking up over 100 games for the province.

Nché has been shortlisted alongside fellow Springboks Pieter-Steph du Toit and Malcolm Marx, as well as France’s Louis Bielle-Biarrey.

Mohoje, who now heads up the Cheetahs Academy, told OFM Sport that it’s Nché’s work ethic that truly sets him apart.

“Not just for Ox Nché, but for props worldwide, it’s huge to see someone nominated for World Player of the Year,” said the former Shimlas and Cheetahs captain.

“I played with Ox; he’s a very hard worker, and he’s built his rugby into a brand. It’s incredibly inspirational, and I don’t think anyone deserves it more than him.

Franco Smith (left), Oupa Mohoje (middle) and Daan Human (right), like Ox Nché, Mohoje and Human, are all Springboks produced by HTS Louis Botha in Bloemfontein. Photo: X

“Ox is an all-round great guy - he used to frustrate me because he’d catch onto something and just smile about it - he’s always smiling. He’s constantly fixing his errors and trying to grow as a person, not just as a rugby player. 

“That drive to improve is what makes him special.”

The competition for the World Player of the Year title is fierce this year, with no clear favourite among the South African trio. Nché, Du Toit, and Marx have all enjoyed rock-solid seasons, and Mohoje admits it’s a tough call, but whoever wins the accolade will truly deserve it.

Ox Nché and Thomas du Toit. Photo: Morgan Piek

“All three South Africans nominated are incredibly hard workers. Pieter-Steph du Toit has shown remarkable consistency, and Malcolm Marx is unbelievably powerful on the field. Choosing one as Player of the Year is tough, I’m glad I’m not a selector, but being among the best players in the world is massive.”

Meanwhile, Ireland will take on the Springboks in Dublin this weekend in a Test eagerly anticipated all year. 

Mohoje, who earned 18 caps for the Springboks, says it will be tough, but he backs the Boks to win by at least ten points and break their 12-year losing streak in the Fair City.

Ox Nché against the Wallabies in Australia. Photo: Getty

“First of all, we must keep 15 players on the park,” Mohoje chuckled. “It’s not going to be easy, like France and Italy in recent weeks; it’ll be another tough match. 

But we managed to pull through before, and I think the Boks can do it again. I’m hopeful they’ll win by a solid 10 points.”

“Saturday’s Test between Ireland and the Springboks at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin kicks off at 19:40.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh