As South Africa prepares to mark 30 years since that unforgettable 1995 Rugby World Cup final, it’s a moment that brings pride, nostalgia—and for many, a touch of heartache.

That legendary Springbok team gave the country hope during a time of healing.

But sadly, some of the heroes from that squad are no longer with us.

Among the players who have passed away are James Small, Joost van der Westhuizen, Chester Williams, Ruben Kruger, and Hannes Strydom.

Each one left an unforgettable mark not just on the pitch, but also on the nation.

It’s worth remembering, too, that the very first member of that historic group to pass away was coach Kitch Christie, who died of leukemia in 1998 at the age of 58.

In this series looking back at the lives of these late greats, we begin with one of the most electric and passionate players of the bunch—James Small.

James Small: The Fearless Wing with a Fierce Heart

James Small first wore the Springbok jersey in 1992 when South Africa faced New Zealand in Johannesburg.

From that debut until his final match in 1997, he played in 47 Tests, scoring 20 tries—including a record-breaking one against Scotland that surpassed the great Danie Gerber’s tally at the time.

But while his attacking flair was undeniable, it was his defensive grit that many fans remember most—especially in the 1995 World Cup final.

Tasked with marking the fearsome Jonah Lomu, Small stood his ground with fearless intensity, helping the Boks clinch a nail-biting victory that united the nation.

Across all appearances in the iconic Green and Gold jersey, Small played 60 matches and scored 27 tries, facing top international teams including England, France, Australia, and the British & Irish Lions.

Provincial Pride and a Career Across South Africa

Domestically, Small had an equally impressive run.

He turned out for Transvaal (now Golden Lions), the Sharks, and Western Province, even featuring in Currie Cup finals for all three teams.

He lifted the trophy with the Sharks and WP—though never quite managed it in a Golden Lions jersey.

His stats speak for themselves:

71 matches and 43 tries for Golden Lions and Cats (1988–1992, then again in 1998–1999)
67 matches and 48 tries for the Sharks (1993–1996)
25 appearances and 18 tries for Western Province and the DHL Stormers (1997–1998)

Life After Rugby: Coaching and Business Ventures

After stepping away from the professional game, Small moved into coaching.

He served as assistant coach to Robert du Preez at NWU-Pukke and the Leopards, and later joined Pirates Rugby Club in Johannesburg.

He also made a name for himself in the hospitality industry, co-owning the well-known Cafe Caprice in Camps Bay, Cape Town.

Outside of sports and food, Small had interests in ADreach, a company focused on street pole advertising—a sign of his entrepreneurial spirit.

A Sudden Goodbye, But a Lasting Legacy

In 2019, James Small’s life was tragically cut short when he suffered a heart attack at just 50 years old.

His sudden death sent shockwaves through the rugby world, with tributes pouring in from fans and former teammates who remembered him as a warrior on the field and a complex, passionate man off it.

Whether it was his blazing pace on the wing, his never-back-down attitude, or his undeniable charm, James Small was more than a player—he was a symbol of a country in transformation.