Leighton Koopman
South African rugby writer and senior sports journalist who primarily covers rugby union, especially the Springboks, United Rugby Championship and other major competitions. He does match analysis and commentary, including player performance, key tactics, and match previews or reviews. His feature articles and commentary pieces offer insight into team dynamics, player milestones and major rugby events. Watch Koopman's podcast The Last Word on Rugby on the YouTube channel The Clutch: www.youtube.com/@TheClutchZA
Stormers seek response after Connacht URC loss with key selection calls looming
After a disappointing 33-24 defeat to Connacht, the Stormers are under pressure to secure a win against the Glasgow Warriors on Saturday in their final home URC ...
Standouts and slip-ups: Five player talking points from SA’s URC round
A mixed United Rugby Championship round for South Africa saw several individuals shine in crucial wins, but also raised fresh concerns around form and composure. ...
Blitzboks break Hong Kong jinx to claim maiden title in opening World Championship tournament
With a mature display of skill, the Springbok Sevens secured their first-ever Hong Kong SVNS title, defeating Argentina 35-7 in the final. This victory positions ...
Lancaster plots Lions upset as Connacht aim to build on Stormers win in URC play-off push
After a thrilling 33-24 victory over the Stormers, Connacht is set to reinforce their squad for a crucial URC showdown against the Lions in Johannesburg this Saturday, ...
Five key reasons behind the Stormers’ shock URC loss to Connacht in Cape Town
The Stormers suffered a disappointing 33-24 defeat to Connacht in the URC, despite a strong start. Explore the five key factors that led to their downfall in this ...
Errors prove costly as Stormers’ URC top-two hopes take a hit after Connacht loss
Stormers director John Dobson attributes their loss to Connacht to high error rates, as the team prepares for a crucial match against Glasgow in their fight for ...
Error-strewn performance cost mourning Stormers in emotional Connacht URC clash
The Stormers faced a heartbreaking defeat against Connacht in an emotionally charged URC clash, marred by errors and the recent loss of team manager Chippie Solomon. ...
GAME DAY | Emotion and pressure collide as Stormers host Connacht in crucial URC clash
With emotional farewells on the line, the Stormers prepare to face Connacht in a high-stakes URC clash that could define their playoff ambitions.
WATCH | THE LAST WORD ON RUGBY: Eben Etzebeth blow headlines crucial URC weekend for SA sides in Top 8 push
With the URC play-offs on the line, South African teams face a crucial weekend. Can they maintain their winning streak despite the setback of Eben Etzebeth's injury? ...
The Major drought — Why South African golf is currently between chapters
It has been 14 years since Ernie Els last brought a major title to South Africa. As a new generation of talent emerges and LIV Golf exemptions complicate the rankings, ...
Bulls look to maintain URC dominance over Dragons in Rodney Parade battle
With playoff hopes on the line, the Bulls look to assert their dominance over the Dragons in a challenging URC clash this Friday.
EXCLUSIVE | URC: Lions recharged and ready for Glasgow challenge at Ellis Park
The Lions are geared up for a pivotal clash against the Glasgow Warriors, aiming to maintain their momentum in the URC. With fresh legs and a focused mindset, they ...
Ruben Van Heerden back to ease Stormers’ lock crisis ahead of Connacht URC battle
Van Heerden’s timely return strengthens the Stormers’ depleted lock stocks, while Salmaan Moerat continues his recovery, targeting a comeback ahead of the URC playoffs. ...
Stormers target fitting tribute for Chippie Solomon in crucial URC clash against Connacht
Following the passing of long-term manager Chippie Solomon, the Stormers are determined to honour his legacy in an upcoming URC clash against Connacht. As they grapple ...
Faf de Klerk signs for Cheetahs in move that reignites Springbok ambitions
Faf de Klerk's return to the Cheetahs could be a game-changer for the Springboks as they prepare for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Discover how this move could reshape ...
URC star power: Four key players to watch as SA franchises target perfect week 15
With back-to-back victories under their belts in the tournament, South Africa's rugby teams will look to these four standout players to keep their momentum going ...
URC race heats up as Lions, Stormers face wounded European heavyweights
With playoff positions on the line as the URC returns this weekend, the South African teams must deliver strong performances over the next four matches to secure ...
Tributes continue to pour in for ‘second to none’ Stormers stalwart team manager Chippie Solomon
Tributes pour in for Stormers’ long-serving team manager Chippie Solomon, who tragically passed away on Saturday. The rugby community expresses deep sadness over ...
Bulls target Welsh win as SA sides enter defining URC stretch
As the Bulls prepare for a critical clash against the Dragons in Wales this coming Friday, can they turn their recent setbacks into a triumphant return to the URC? ...
WATCH | THE LAST WORD ON RUGBY: Close but not quite for SA sides as Stormers left frustrated in Europe amid officiating debate ...
South African rugby franchises face frustration in European competitions as they exit the Champions and Challenge Cups.
Cheslin Kolbe staying in Japan for now, with potential Stormers homecoming on the horizon
Cheslin Kolbe is set to remain in Japan, with his focus on seeing out his contract through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup despite links to the Stormers.
A step forward, a whistle back: SA teams’ European reality
Why do South African franchises send their best teams to Europe when they often face questionable officiating? We look at the Stormers' struggles in the Champions ...
Springbok lock Ruan Nortjé to leave Bulls for Japan move at the end of the season
Ruan Nortjé, a key player for the Bulls, is set to leave Loftus Versfeld for a new chapter in Japan, marking the end of an era for the team.
Dream to lead the Springboks: Mzwandile Stick backed for future Bok head coach role
Mzwandile Stick is poised to chase his dream of becoming the next Springbok head coach, with unwavering support from his agency as Rassie Erasmus leads until 2031. ...
URC 2026: Five uncapped stars pushing for Springbok honours as play-offs loom
As the United Rugby Championship enters its final stages, we look at five uncapped South African players, including Haashim Pead and Jurenzo Julius, who are fighting ...