Klerksdorp-born Andre Esterhuizen came through Hoerskool Klerksdorp and the Leopards' junior ranks, representing his home union at the Under-13 Craven Week in 2007, the Under-16 Grant Khomo Week in 2010 and the Under-18 Craven Week in 2011. In 2013 he moved to Durban, finishing as joint top try-scorer in the Under-21 Provincial Championship's Division A with nine tries.
The giant midfielder made his Sharks senior debut in 2014 against the Hurricanes in Super Rugby and became a fixture in the No 12 jersey, earning his Springbok debut in 2018. After four standout seasons with Harlequins - including a Premiership title in 2021 - he returned to the Sharks in 2024 and has since captained the side in the URC.
Now redefining his game as the Springboks' hybrid "flentre" under Rassie Erasmus, Esterhuizen remains one of world rugby's most destructive ball-carriers, and the physical heartbeat of the Sharks midfield heading into 2026/27.
