Springbok Prop Lizo Gqoboka Retires at 36

South African front‑rower Lizo Gqoboka announced his retirement at age 36 after a decade with the Vodacom Bulls. The former Springbok earned two Test caps and finished his career on a high note, scoring two tries and winning Man of the Match in a warm‑up game against the Valke.

Gqoboka’s path to professional rugby was unconventional. He grew up in Mount Frere, Eastern Cape, and only began playing seriously at 19 after stints in soccer and athletics. Early work included loading trucks and a funeral parlour. Former Springbok Robbi Kempson spotted his potential and secured his first contract with the EP Kings, leading to later spells with the Stormers, French side Montpellier, and a long tenure as a first‑choice prop for the Bulls.

Off the field, Gqoboka built a business in earth‑moving equipment and maintained a disciplined savings habit. Reflecting on his career, he said, “I’m grateful to finish here…my heart is full with gratitude and contentment.”