Lions Stalwart PJ Botha Set to Reach Historic Century Milestone in United Rugby Championship Clash

Lions pillar PJ Botha is set to earn his 100th franchise cap against Connacht. Discover how this unsung hero became a cornerstone of the Johannesburg pack.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 23, 2026, 4:44 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

The Impending Milestone of an Unheralded Franchise Anchor

A decade of relentless consistency is set to culminate in a significant professional landmark as PJ Botha prepares for his 100th appearance for the Lions. Known primarily for his work rate and stability rather than highlight-reel plays, the 28-year-old has established himself as a central figure in the Johannesburg-based side’s forward pack. Should he be selected for the upcoming United Rugby Championship encounter against Connacht, Botha will transition from a dependable squad member to a centurion, solidifying his legacy within the franchise's modern era.

Early Inspirations and the Evolution of a Front-Row Specialist

The journey to 100 caps began with the influence of South African rugby giants, providing a blueprint for Botha’s professional development. During his early years at the union, Botha looked to world-class talent for guidance, specifically noting that Malcolm Marx was a significant role model during their shared time in the Lions' environment. According to Botha, while he never shared the pitch with Marx in a match, the training sessions they spent together, coupled with the experience gained from veteran Jaco Visagie, provided the foundational skills necessary to survive the rigors of international franchise rugby.

From Schoolboy Aspirations to Century Landmark Success

For a player who once harbored modest dreams of a brief professional career, reaching a century of games represents a significant personal triumph. Reflecting on his progress since his days at Hoërskool Monument, Botha admitted that as a schoolboy, he hoped only to play a handful of matches in an international competition. The speed at which his career has unfolded since his 2019 Currie Cup debut has caught him by surprise, and he expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to reach this career-defining milestone in front of a home crowd at Ellis Park.