Joseph Dweba
Full names: Joseph
Date of birth: 25 Oct 1995
Place of birth: Carletonville
Schools: Florida Jan Viljoen
Springbok no: 919
Springbok debut province: Union Bordeaux Bègles
Physical: 1.80m, 108.0kg
Current age: 30
Test summary: Tests: 6 Tries: 0
First Test: 14 Aug 2021 Age 25 - Hooker against Argentina at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth
Last Test: 5 Aug 2023 Age 27 - Reserve against Argentina at Velez Sarsfield Stadium, Buenos Aires
Test history:

Joseph Dweba: UltimateRugby.com

Joseph Dweba is a powerful and mobile South African rugby union player known for his skills as a modern-day hooker. He excels in both the core skills required at the lineout and scrums, making him a valuable asset on the field.

Dweba's rugby journey began at Hoërskool Florida, where he showcased his talent and earned his first provincial colors as part of the Golden Lions Under-16 side that competed in the Grant Khomo Week competition. Two years later, he represented the Golden Lions in the prestigious Under-18 Craven Week, a high school rugby tournament in South Africa, which led to his inclusion in the SA Schools team.

After completing his schooling, Dweba made the move to Bloemfontein to join the Cheetahs. His performances caught the attention of national selectors, and he was called up to the South Africa U20 squad for the 2014 IRB Junior World Championship, where the team finished as runners-up.

Dweba continued to make his mark in domestic rugby, representing the Free State U19 side in 2014 and playing for Bloemfontein Crusaders in the 2015 SARU Community Cup. He made his provincial first-class debut for the Free State XV in the 2015 Vodacom Cup, facing the SWD Eagles.

In 2017, Dweba made his Currie Cup debut against Boland and his Super Rugby debut against the Western Force. He gained prominence during the 2018/19 season when an injury to Jacques du Toit led to Dweba's promotion to the starting side. It proved to be a breakout season for him, solidifying his place in the team and earning recognition as a highly talented hooker. Many believe he is on track to represent the Springboks in the near future.

In May 2020, Dweba signed with Bordeaux, confirming his move to the TOP14 club for the 2020/21 season. His impressive performances caught the attention of the national selectors once again, and he was named in South Africa's 46-man squad for the British and Irish Lions Tour in June 2021. He played for the South Africa A team, contributing to their 17-13 victory over the Lions.

In May 2022, Dweba made the decision to return to South Africa, joining the Stormers. He signed a three-year deal with the team, further cementing his place among the country's top rugby players. With his talent and determination, Joseph Dweba is poised to continue making a significant impact in the rugby world.