Retshegofaditswe ‘Ox’ Nche will be fueled by the power of cake when he makes his return for the Springboks in the World Cup warm-up against Wales on Saturday.

Back in South Africa’s matchday-23 after recovering from a pectoral injury suffered in a gym session, Nche was at his jovial best during a press conference yesterday afternoon.

Also read: Ox raring to charge at Wales

The loosehead prop has gathered a large following on social media as the leader of the ‘Ox Kraal’ and a famed hater of salads.

“People get shocked when they get to see me and realise, I actually have a pretty unique sense of humour,” Nche said.

“They often say I look too serious and, at times, people are afraid to approach me, so I thought, it’s not a bad thing in being a rugby player, that people also get to know a different side of me off the field.”

 

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Nche’s famed love of cake has proved a hit on social media and, joined by winger Cheslin Kolbe in the press conference, he affirmed one of his core beliefs.

“Salads do not win scrums. I truly believe that. That’s why Cheslin is on the wing and I’m in the front row,” added Nche, with a chuckle.

“I don’t count calories, I count slices of cake. I enjoy a chocolate caramel. It’s too late now, but I did have a slice during the week, so I should be good to go.”

Some wholesome @oxnche content. 💚🐂

“I don’t count calories, I count slices of cake.” pic.twitter.com/TYCkFSZ5ab

— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) August 16, 2023