The 36-year-old playmaker is one of two Suzuki Griquas stars in the running, alongside electric winger Gurswin Wehr, after a historic season that saw the Peacock Blues lift the Currie Cup for the first time in 55 years. That unforgettable triumph came via a dramatic 27–25 victory over the Lions at Ellis Park in Johannesburg.

In a final that will be etched into Currie Cup folklore, the Lions believed they had sealed the title – only for a late TMO intervention to drag play back for a penalty. 

With ice in his veins, Whitehead calmly stepped up and slotted the kick from distance on what would have been his late father’s birthday, sealing a fairytale win for Griquas.

George Whitehead during the 2025 Currie Cup final. Photo: Morgan Piek

But Whitehead’s influence stretched well beyond the final. The seasoned pivot was instrumental throughout the tournament, finishing as the leading points scorer with an impressive 88 points. He slotted 31 conversions, nailed seven penalties, and even chipped in with a try or two along the way.

Wehr, meanwhile, lit up the competition with his pace and finishing prowess, crossing the whitewash eight times to end as the tournament’s second-highest try-scorer – just one behind Donovan Don of the Boland Cavaliers, who completes the shortlist for the prestigious accolade.

The outstanding performances of both Whitehead and Wehr have also opened doors at a higher level. Whitehead earned a loan move to the Sharks, featuring in the United Rugby Championship and Champions Cup, while Wehr headed north to England to link up with Sale Sharks in the English Premiership.

Despite Griquas’ fairytale season, head coach Pieter Bergh was overlooked for the SA Rugby Coach of the Year nomination. While Bergh’s omission raised eyebrows, the award category reflects an extraordinary year for the national teams, with Rassie Erasmus (Springboks), Philip Snyman (Blitzboks), Kevin Foote (Junior Springboks), and Swys de Bruin (Springbok Women) all nominated.

Speaking to OFM Sport, Whitehead said he felt privileged by the recognition but stressed that the success was built on a massive collective effort – and that Bergh also deserved his moment in the spotlight.

“It’s a big privilege to be nominated, I must say. To be nominated alongside Gurswin, and to have two players from Griquas recognised, is something really special,” said the product of Grey College.

Gurswin Wehr en route to the tryline during the 2025 Currie Cup final at Ellis Park. Photo: Morgan Piek

“But it also just shows that it takes a team effort. I can easily name a couple of other Griquas players who were very close to being nominated, and I also feel that coach Pieter Bergh was unlucky not to be nominated for Coach of the Year.

“He’s done an exceptional job with this Griquas side.”

Whitehead added that the nominations speak volumes about the grit and character within the squad, and that the recognition goes far beyond individual honours.

An emotional coach Pieter Bergh and Gurswin Wehr after the historic Currie Cup victory in Johannesburg. Photo: Morgan Piek

“We take a lot of pride in our work, and we definitely fight above our weight. To be nominated and to receive this kind of recognition is an honour, but for me it always comes back to the team. One or two players don’t make a side – it takes a full squad, the coaching staff, and all the hard work behind the scenes.

“Our success has always been about something bigger than the individual, and that will always be the most important thing for me.

“It’s bigger than myself, but to receive this recognition is truly a privilege.”

The Griquas are currently deep into preseason preparations for the upcoming SA Cup, which kicks off in March. Despite being the reigning Currie Cup champions, the Kimberley-based outfit will once again have to earn qualification for the world’s oldest domestic rugby competition if they are to defend their crown.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cvs