The Gentle Giant of Northampton Saints
In the high-octane world of Premiership rugby, certain players command attention simply by their presence. JJ Van der Mescht is one such figure. Standing at an imposing 6ft 7in and weighing in at a staggering 23 stone (145kg), the Northampton Saints lock is a force of nature on the field. But it's not just his physical presence that makes headlines; it's his unique approach to fueling his giant frame that has captured the imagination of fans and media alike.
A Scary Sight on the Field
"A 145kg man running at you, two metres tall – that is a scary sight," Van der Mescht himself acknowledges with a mixture of pride and humility. Even among the ranks of professional rugby players, where size is a significant asset, Van der Mescht stands out. He is currently the joint-heaviest player in the Premiership and one of the tallest, making him a formidable opponent for any defence.
But size alone doesn't make a great player. Van der Mescht possesses remarkable agility and speed, attributes that are often unexpected in a player of his stature. As a schoolboy, he could run the 100m in 11 seconds flat, a testament to his athletic prowess. This combination of size and speed makes him a nightmare for would-be tacklers.
Ball-Carrying Dynamo
Since his summer arrival at Northampton, Van der Mescht has become the team's primary ball carrier, stepping into the void left by fellow South African Juarno Augustus, who moved to Ulster. The 26-year-old averages an impressive 12 carries per game in the top flight and has registered the highest percentage of dominant carries of any forward in the league. His ability to take the ball at full tilt and drive through defences is a key component of Northampton's high-tempo game plan.
"It's an amazing feeling, taking the ball at full tilt," he says. "It's something I've always loved to do, is taking the ball up. I really thrive for that. I like the physicality."
The One-Meal-a-Day Diet Revolution
What makes Van der Mescht's story even more compelling is his unique dietary approach. Back in 2022, after some heavy wedding celebrations, he returned to his former club Stade Francais weighing an incredible 25 stone (160kg). Determined to get his fitness back on track, he adopted intermittent fasting – a practice of not eating for long periods during the day. Today, his giant frame and gainline power are fueled by just one meal a day.
"My stomach has got a lot smaller now, so it's just one meal in the evening," he explains. "I'll snack sometimes if I really feel like I need some energy. And game day is a bit different – I'll eat some pasta before the game instead. But yeah, just one meal a day."
His favourite meal? "Definitely a big steak," he says with a smile. "I can't really eat more than that."
A Diet That Works for Him
Van der Mescht is quick to point out that his one-meal-a-day approach isn't a prescription for everyone. "Every person is different. It will work for some people, it won't work for some. I just found it works for me," he says. For the Northampton Saints, his diet has become an integral part of their gameplan. The team's quick hands and rapid recycling are hallmarks of a high-tempo game that has seen them top of the Premiership at the halfway point of the campaign.
"Playing in the Prem, which is much faster than the Top 14, and especially in this team that moves the ball around, I need to be more mobile and keep up with all the boys who are just amazing players," Van der Mescht adds. "I don't want to let these guys down."
Finding a Home in Northampton
Beyond the field, Van der Mescht has found a deep emotional connection to his new surroundings. After struggling with the anonymity of Paris during his time at Stade Francais, the 26-year-old and his wife Carla have settled in a small village about 12 miles outside Northampton. They feel at home already.
"I love the people. The fans are amazing. We'll be walking down the street and people come up to me and say 'JJ, it's so lovely to meet you'. That is amazing and I really, really, really love it," he says. "It's something I really missed when I was in France, that community sense that I always got at home."
Community Engagement
The couple's integration into the local community has been heartwarming. The deluge of Christmas cards they received from neighbours reduced Carla to tears, a gesture that spoke volumes about their acceptance. Van der Mescht has also been actively giving back, volunteering his time to coach at nearby Towcestrians.
"Seeing these guys working a nine-to-five, coming to training and they are always up for it," he says. "Even if they do fitness, they're smiling, they're enjoying it, just loving the game. It really brought that back to me that I don't play because it is my job, it is because I love rugby."
Aiming Higher
For a player of Van der Mescht's caliber, the ultimate ambition is international recognition. He represented South Africa at the under-20 World Cup in 2019, but his senior international career hasn't taken off as yet. With established giants like Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, RG Snyman, and Franco Mostert in the Springbok lineup, the path to the national team is crowded.
However, Van der Mescht remains focused on his club duties, knowing that strong performances for Northampton are the best way to catch the eye of national selectors. His recent form suggests he's on the right track, and with his unique combination of size, speed, and work ethic, he could yet force his way into the international scene.
Conclusion
JJ Van der Mescht is more than just a giant on the rugby field; he's a fascinating case study in physical conditioning, mental resilience, and adaptability. His one-meal-a-day diet challenges conventional wisdom about nutrition for elite athletes, while his journey from South Africa to the Premiership, via France, offers insights into the life of a modern professional rugby player.
As Northampton Saints continue their push for Premiership glory, fans will be watching Van der Mescht not just for his ball-carrying prowess, but for the inspiration he provides as a player who has redefined what it means to be at the top of his game. Whether it's his terrifying presence on the field or his unconventional approach to fueling his body, JJ Van der Mescht is a player who defies expectations at every turn.
