‘I’m a frightening vision’ – Northampton’s 23-stone, single-meal individual

Opposing defenses hold JJ van der Mescht’s empathy.

«It must be quite frightening,» he tells BBC Look East.

«A 145kg (22st 12lb) man charging at you, two meters (6ft 7in) tall – that is a daunting sight.»

Even within the ranks of rugby’s elite, the perspective-altering Northampton lock is unusual. He is the joint-heaviest competitor in the Prem and among the tallest.

He can move swiftly as well.

As a schoolboy, Van der Mescht clocked the 100m in 11 seconds flat.

It’s a formidable prospect for potential tacklers. And a quite routine one as well.

With fellow South African Juarno Augustus having moved to Ulster, Van der Mescht has picked up Northampton’s ball-carrying duties since his summer arrival.

The 26-year-old averages 12 carries per match in the top tier and has achieved the highest rate of dominant carries of any forward in the league.

«It’s an incredible sensation, taking the ball at full speed,» he states.

«It’s something I’ve always enjoyed doing, is taking the ball forward.

«I truly thrive on that. I enjoy the physical challenge.»

There used to be even more of Van der Mescht.

Back in 2022, following some substantial wedding festivities, he returned to his previous team Stade Francais weighing in at 160kg (25st 3lbs).

Since that time, he has engaged in intermittent fasting – not consuming food for extended periods throughout the day. Now, remarkably, his massive build and gainline strength are sustained by just one meal per day.

His preferred choice is «definitely a large steak».

«I can’t really consume more than that,» remarks Van der Mescht, whose mother was an international netball player standing 6ft 3in and whose father was a professional wrestler.

«My stomach has shrunk significantly now, so it’s just one meal in the evening.

«I’ll snack occasionally if I genuinely feel I need some energy. Game days differ slightly – I’ll have some pasta prior to the match instead.

«But yes, just one meal per day. Everyone is unique. This approach suits some people, and not others.

«I just found it suits me.»

It aligns with the Saints game strategy as well. Quick passing and swift recycling characterize a high-tempo style that has them leading the Prem at the season’s midpoint.

«Playing in the Prem, which is much quicker than the Top 14, and especially in this team that circulates the ball, I need to be more agile and keep pace with all the boys who are exceptional players,» notes Van der Mescht.

«I don’t want to disappoint these guys.»

The emotional bond is new, yet profound. Van der Mescht and his wife Carla have moved into a quaint village, situated about 12 miles from Northampton.

After experiencing struggles in the anonymity of Paris, they feel at home already.

«I adore the people. The supporters are fantastic. As we stroll down the street, individuals come up to me and say ‘JJ, it’s wonderful to meet you’. That’s incredible, and I genuinely, really appreciate it,» he shares.

«It’s something I truly missed while in France, that sense of community that I always experienced at home.»

The flood of Christmas cards that the couple received from their new neighbors moved Carla to tears, while Van der Mescht has been dedicating his time to coach nearby Towcestrians.

«Witnessing these individuals juggle a 9-to-5 job, attending training, and always being enthusiastic,» he remarks.

«Even when they engage in fitness, they’re smiling, enjoying themselves, just relishing the game. It genuinely reminded me that I don’t play because it’s my job; I play because I love rugby.»

Meanwhile, Van der Mescht, who represented South Africa at the under-20 World Cup in 2019, is anticipating another coach.

With Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, RG Snyman, and Franco Mostert all over 30, could a call be on the horizon from Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, who would undoubtedly be intrigued by Van der Mescht’s unique attributes?

«For every South African, representing South Africa is a goal,» states Van der Mescht.

«Since childhood, it’s always been the aspiration to play for the Springboks.

«We have some tremendous locks there. They are world-class athletes.

«I feel like my primary focus is on improving myself, rather than just concentrating solely on becoming a Springbok.

«If I concentrate on self-improvement and enhancing my rugby skills, opportunities will arise.

«I must trust the journey, but it’s undoubtedly a goal for me.»

Defensive lines can begin preparing themselves already.