Forget the main match. All eyes were on a barefoot youngster weaving through defenders like a seasoned Springbok.
South Africa (15 July 2025) – What was supposed to be a high-stakes rugby showdown at Craven Week turned into something no one quite expected: a viral halftime show starring the smallest player on the field.
Spectators had gathered in numbers to watch the country’s top young rugby talent battle it out. But during halftime, attention shifted from the main event to a group of children casually tossing a ball around on the field. It started off as a bit of innocent fun until one little boy, Zedan Johnson, decided to go full Cheslin Kolbe on everyone.
Barefoot and fearless, Zedan dodged tackles from his mini opponents like a pro. TikTok footage shows him dashing through the crowd of kids with very sharp sidesteps that could have broken his opponents’ ankles. A few older spectators and social media users believe that’s a future Springbok right there!
@stadio_higher_ed We caught up with Zedan Johnson aka Small, the boy who stole the show (and our hearts) at Craven Week with that Kolbe step 🏉💫 Hear what the future star has to say! 🌟 #STADIOHigherEducation #fyp #foryoupage #trending #explore #CravenWeek #sama28 ♬ The Champion – Lux-Inspira
As clips of the moment began circulating online, fans could not help but compare the young dynamo to Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe, however, this time without the boots.
The charm of the video is not just in the boy’s footwork, but in how the crowd responded. The energy shifted. Adults who had been analysing team lineouts moments earlier were now cheering every tiny try attempt and sidestep with praise, laughter and applause.
Look, he might not have a jersey number, but his impact has already been felt across timelines. It’s a reminder that while Craven Week is about identifying the next generation of rugby stars, sometimes the biggest moments come from the smallest feet.
Whether or not this young star continues playing rugby, one thing’s for sure: he’s already stolen the spotlight.
Sources: Stadio Higher Education
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