Publisher behind Benni McCarthy’s book produces Cheslin Kolbe’s new release

Pan Macmillan, the publisher behind Harambee Stars’ head coach Benni McCarthy’s book, has released a new memoir by Springbok rugby star Cheslin Kolbe.Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsTitled Sidestepping the Odds, the highly anticipated book hit bookstores globally in October 2026, offering an intimate account of Kolbe’s journey from a young boy who was repeatedly overlooked because of his size to one of the most celebrated players in world rugby.The 32-year-old has co-written the memoir with award-winning South African journalist and broadcaster David O’Sullivan, who has also worked with Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus on his bestselling book, Rassie: Stories of Life and Rugby.Victor Wanyama's message to Harry Kane after winning Ballon d’OrBeyond documenting Kolbe’s achievements on the rugby field, the memoir explores the role of family, community and faith in shaping his career, while highlighting the challenges he overcame on his path to international stardom.Growing up in Kraaifontein, Kolbe was often considered too small and fragile to succeed in professional rugby. His physical stature attracted doubts from coaches and selectors, forcing him to confront perceptions that threatened to limit his ambitions.Rather than allowing those doubts to define him, the winger turned his perceived weakness into motivation, developing the speed, agility and tactical awareness that would eventually make him one of the most dangerous attacking players in world rugby.##NAJAVA_MECA_10067569##His journey, however, extended beyond the challenges of the sport, with the memoir also reflecting on the difficult environment in which he grew up.“I grew up in a world of crime, drugs and violence, and was told I was too small to play rugby. I refused to let these challenges defeat me,” Kolbe said.“I want this book to inspire young people, and anyone who has ever been told they are not enough, to defy the odds, believe in themselves and remember that their circumstances do not define their future,” he continued.Clifton Miheso on lessons football can borrow from rugby to boost fan attendanceKolbe’s professional journey began with Western Province and the Stormers, where he won the Currie Cup in 2014 before moving to France in 2017 to join Toulouse.He established himself among Europe’s leading backline players, winning two French Top 14 titles in 2019 and 2021, alongside the European Rugby Champions Cup in 2021.He subsequently joined Toulon, helping the club win the EPCR Challenge Cup in 2023, before moving to Japan to play for Tokyo Sungoliath in the Rugby League One competition.##NAJAVA_MECA_10067563##At international level, Kolbe first represented South Africa in sevens rugby, winning a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.He made his Springboks Test debut against Australia on September 8, 2018, before becoming a central figure in South Africa’s back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023.His decisive try in the 2019 final against England remains one of the defining moments of his international career. His performances at the highest level have further cemented his reputation as one of the most influential players of his generation.AFC Leopards warn fans after 'unacceptable' behaviour during Shabana clashKolbe was named South Africa’s Men’s Rugby Player of the Year in 2024 and returned to the Stormers in 2026 after his spell in Japan.O’Sullivan said working with Kolbe had provided an opportunity to document a story defined by perseverance, courage and determination.“It has been eye-opening and inspiring to work with Cheslin. This book shares his story of perseverance and courage – from growing up in Kraaifontein to reaching the greatest heights in world rugby as a double World Cup winner, and one of the most admired players of his generation,” O’Sullivan said.##NAJAVA_MECA_10067437##Pan Macmillan publisher Andrea Nattrass highlighted Kolbe’s ability to bring courage, energy and unpredictability to the game, drawing parallels with his famous charge-down moment during the 2023 Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand.“Cheslin Kolbe's approach to life and rugby is characterised by that 2023 World Cup charge-down moment. He brings courage, energy, focused determination and an inspired unpredictability to every situation he faces. Pan Macmillan is privileged to be working with him to publish his story for readers,” Nattrass said.