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mapimpi

Makazole Mapimpi continues to be an integral part of the Springboks, featuring prominently in their latest international fixtures. On July 12, 2025, he scored a try as South Africa defeated Italy 45-0, underlining his ongoing impact on the squad[1]. This victory came in the Boks’ last match before the 2025 Rugby World Championship, with Mapimpi and Jan-Hendrik Wessels among the try-scorers as the Springboks delivered a commanding performance[5]. He contributed to the team’s attacking play, linking effectively with his Sharks teammates and demonstrating the experience that has seen him become one of South Africa’s most prolific try-scorers[7].

As of July 2025, Mapimpi is set to earn his 47th Test cap, needing just three more to join the elite group of South African players with 50 or more appearances[3]. His sustained excellence and try-scoring prowess remain crucial, with 32 tries in 46 Tests to his name at the time of his last contract extension[2]. That extension, signed earlier in 2025, keeps him at the Sharks for at least another two years, where he has already scored 37 tries in 80 appearances and continues to mentor the next generation of talent[2].

Off the field, Mapimpi’s journey is regarded as one of perseverance and triumph over adversity. Double World Cup winner and the first South African to score a try in a final, Mapimpi’s career highlights include back-to-back World Cup victories (2019 and 2023), a Challenge Cup title with the Sharks, and continued recognition as a key leader both for club and country[4]. Despite speculation in 2024 connecting him with a move to French club La Rochelle, he opted to remain with the Sharks, signaling his intention to finish his career in Durban[6].

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