Exclusive: Sikhumbuzo Notshe’s Journey from Sharks Cast-Off to Top 14 Star

A year ago, Sikhumbuzo Notshe found himself at a career crossroads. Released by the Sharks and without a contract, the former Springbok loose forward could have faded quietly from the spotlight. Instead, he took a leap of faith that not only resurrected his career but propelled him to new heights and next season, the Top 14.

Now 32, Notshe has been a revelation for Montauban, a team that was fighting relegation from France’s Pro D2 when he arrived. Fast forward twelve months, and they’re headed to the Top 14, one of the toughest and most prestigious rugby competitions in the world.

A Cutthroat Industry, An Honest Decision

Notshe’s transition from Durban to the south of France wasn’t just professional but it was deeply personal.

“I’ll be honest with you, I didn’t get a contract extension,” he told SportsBoom.co.za. 

“The rugby industry is cutthroat. There were young loose forwards coming through at the Sharks, and I was asked to move on. That’s the reality and there is no sugar-coating it.”

The call that changed everything came from Montauban head coach Sébastien Calvet, a former Toulon assistant who had once worked with Springbok enforcer Eben Etzebeth. 

“Seb called me, said Eben spoke well of me, and the next minute I was on a flight to France,” Notshe recalled.

Adapting to the French Way

Adapting to life in France was no easy task. Notshe, who grew up in Cape Town and is fluent in English and Xhosa, had to learn an entirely new language and culture.

“The move was challenging. French was a foreign language to me,” he admitted. 

“But I didn’t want to isolate myself. I took French classes, made the effort, and slowly started picking things up. On the field, rugby is rugby but you still have to earn respect.”

That’s exactly what he did, becoming a key figure in Montauban’s pack and a leader both on and off the field.

Rugby Culture Shock: France vs. South Africa

Having played in South Africa’s top domestic and international competitions in the Currie Cup, Super Rugby, and URC. Notshe was well equipped to compare rugby cultures.

“Super Rugby in my early years was like ‘Fast and Furious’. You can’t really compare it to anything,” he said. 

“But Pro D2 and URC,  there are similarities. Pro D2 is very physical. Big names are here. Brive has Courtney Lawes and Curwin Bosch. People think it’s a step down, but it’s really not. It’s competitive, and the level is high.”

From Relegation Scrap to Top 14 Dream

When Notshe arrived, Montauban were staring relegation in the face. They survived a playoff against Narbonne, and Calvet took the reins full-time. That’s when the rebuild began.

“I mean, it’s quite a story. From nearly dropping to National 1 to now making the Top 14...it’s insane. In the final, our coach told us, ‘They said we’re a bunch of nobodies coached by a nobody and let’s go make history.’ That fired us up.”

With promotion secured, Montauban now face the daunting task of competing in the Top 14, a league Notshe says is only second to the Champions Cup in intensity and prestige.

What’s Next for Notshe?

Speculation may swirl about a possible return to South Africa, but for now, Notshe is focused entirely on Montauban.

“I’m contracted to Montauban, and I want to give everything to this small town that’s welcomed me. If something back home comes up, I’ll look at it. But I’m not actively searching. My head and heart are here.”

He added, “Top 14 is a different beast with so many games, so much intensity. But for now, I’m keen to go home, fix the body, take a break, and get ready. It’s going to be a long season ahead.”

Sikhumbuzo Notshe’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and quiet determination. From being let go in South Africa to becoming a key cog in a French rugby fairytale, his journey serves as a reminder that sometimes, the biggest wins come after the toughest losses.

And next season, he’ll be writing a new chapter under the bright lights of the Top 14.