Siya Masuku, the 28-year-old flyhalf who joined the Hollywoodbets Sharks from the Toyota Cheetahs ahead of the 2023/24 season, has quickly become a central figure in the team’s performance. But his story isn’t an overnight success – it’s one built on grit, patience, and some seriously clutch performances.
Hailing from Paulpietersburg in KwaZulu-Natal and a proud Piet Retief High School alum, Masuku cut his teeth with the Southern Kings and Toyota Cheetahs. It was with the latter that he really started turning heads: a monster long-range penalty to clinch a win over Pau in the Heineken Challenge Cup, and a match-winning showing against the Bulls in the Currie Cup where he racked up a try and four penalties in a high-pressure 31-27 win.
Since making his Hollywoodbets Sharks starting debut in March 2024, Masuku has stepped into his role with confidence and control. In the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, he chalked up 49 points in just eight games. His EPCR Challenge Cup numbers are even more impressive – 71 points in four matches, including 15 penalties and 13 conversions.
His standout performances have earned more than just fanfare – head coach John Plumtree couldn’t have spoken more highly of him after a game-winning showing against Clermont in the Challenge Cup semi-final that earned him Man of the Match.
“He has played well on the big stage, I’m really happy for him,” said Plumtree. “Very humble character, he feels very honoured to be playing for the jersey, and he’s making the most of his opportunity.
“He’s still going to get better, his skill sets will improve; his passing game needs to improve, needs to improve as an athlete. He hasn’t reached his ceiling yet.”
With his current trajectory, Siya Masuku is poised to become a mainstay in South African rugby, bringing both strategic acumen and dynamic play to the fly-half position.