The Autumn Nations Series is scheduled to begin on Saturday when South Africa face England at the Allianz Stadium. But this is not the first time the two countries have combined to create something special, with Durban-born rugby ace Brad Barritt being a prime example.
The former England international, who won 26 caps for his adopted country, has enjoyed significant success since his retirement through his Tiki Tonga Coffee Roasters business. The 38-year-old was still in his prime, having won five Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups with Saracens when he founded the coffee company in 2016.
Since then, the South African Under-21 star has seen his business grow exponentially. Based in Welwyn Garden City near Saracens’ Stone
But Wales Online reports that Tiki Tonga coffee isn’t just for UK consumers. The company has expanded internationally and now operates in co-founder Barritt’s native South Africa.
Barritt hopes his fans won’t criticize him despite representing England and not the Springboks in rugby. He entered the coffee business after realizing that the beverage was ‘an essential part of many people’s daily lives.’
Here’s Barritt’s quote from the company’s mission statement: “Whether it’s an Americano that morning with the family, a quick espresso shot to get me fired up before training, or a flat white when reuniting with friends.”
Barrett, who retired from Saracens in 2020, faced the Springboks four times during his career. However, his best performance came during England’s tour of South Africa in 2012, when he drew 14-14, and lost on the other three occasions.
He will be cheering on both teams on Saturday as England attempt to bounce back from back-to-back defeats against New Zealand and Australia. A third successive loss to the reigning world champions could spell trouble for manager Steve Borthwick, but his former Saracens team-mate may have the perfect solution.
