JJ Van der Mescht: Northampton's 23-stone, one-meal man
JJ Van der Mescht has gained the sympathy of opposition defences with his imposing presence on the rugby field. Standing at 2 metres tall and weighing 145kg, he is a force to be reckoned with. But it's not just his physical attributes that make him stand out; it's also his speed and agility. As a schoolboy, Van der Mescht could run the 100m in 11 seconds flat, making him a challenging prospect for any tackler.
Since joining Northampton, Van der Mescht has become a key player, averaging 12 carries per game in the top flight and having the highest percentage of dominant carries of any forward in the league. His ability to take the ball at full tilt and thrive in the physicality of the game is remarkable.
But what's even more impressive is his dietary regimen. Van der Mescht practices intermittent fasting, eating just one meal a day, which has helped him maintain his giant frame and gainline power. His favourite meal is a big steak, and he finds that his stomach has shrunk, allowing him to eat just one meal in the evening. He occasionally snacks if he feels the need for energy, but game day is a bit different, as he'll eat some pasta before the game.
Van der Mescht's emotional connection to Northampton is new but deep. He and his wife Carla have settled in a small village outside the city, and they feel at home after struggling in the anonymity of Paris. The community sense and support from the fans have been amazing, and he's even been volunteering his time to coach nearby Towcestrians, bringing back the love for the game.
With his impressive skills and ambition to play for South Africa, Van der Mescht is a player to watch. His X-factor properties and world-class skills make him a target for the Springboks, and test defences can start bracing themselves for his formidable presence on the field.
