Rugby Star Fights for Third World Cup Despite Injury

Kyle Saunders spent a year on the sidelines, watching his tag rugby career slip away. Now he's back and heading to Australia to make history.

The 29-year-old from Mitchell's Plain, South Africa, will become his country's most capped international tag rugby player at the October World Cup. With over 40 appearances for the national team since 2018, Saunders has led the TagBOKS as captain since 2023.

"I love sevens rugby, and that is why I love tag," said Saunders. "The space you get makes it incredibly fast and allows me to express myself on the field."

Tag rugby strips away the tackles but keeps all the speed and strategy that makes sevens thrilling. For Saunders, who also plays for Hamilton RFC, the game offers freedom that extends beyond the field.

But there's a catch. Despite being a national team captain heading to his third World Cup, Saunders must pay his own way.

Tag rugby remains semi-professional in South Africa, meaning elite athletes like Saunders fund their own dreams. He needs to raise $60,000 to cover his expenses for the tournament, where South Africa currently ranks seventh in the world.

Why This Inspires

Saunders isn't just fighting for himself. He's pushing to elevate tag rugby's profile so future athletes won't face the same financial barriers.

"We want to push for the top spots," he said. "Our coaching and structures are trying their best to get the game to a level where it becomes a much bigger sport."

His journey shows what dedication looks like when nobody's watching. Coming back from a career-threatening injury would be achievement enough for most athletes, but Saunders is aiming higher.

He's proving that tag rugby opens doors for players who want more than one way to compete. The sport welcomes rugby enthusiasts of all backgrounds, offering a faster, more accessible version of the game they love.

Now his community has a chance to help him reach the pinnacle one more time. After everything he's overcome, Saunders is ready to wear his country's colors again and lead his team onto the world stage.