A past pupil of Hoërskool Dr Johan Jurgens in Springs, Friedle Olivier first earned provincial selection for the Valke at the U18 Academy Week of 2010, where he remained after completing his schooling. Five immense performances in the U19 Currie Cup in 2011 saw his team reach the semi-finals of their division, and he continued to impress in the U21 Currie Cup of the following year. A senior professional debut beckoned, and a 21-year-old Olivier was duly rewarded with his first Vodacom Cup start against the Pumas, slotting in on the side of the scrum as a hard-carrying blindside flank. It soon became apparent that Friedle’s ability to break tackles and pick superb running lines made him a natural No. 8 and he has spent the majority of his 85 professional caps at the base of the scrum.

With that said, Olivier has all the grunt and physicality of a brutal second rower, commanding the lineout as a confident jumper and clearing rucks with ruthless speed. Committed to a disciplined conditioning regime, Friedle provides the perfect hybrid of an aggressive enforcer, and mobile link between backs and forwards. So adept is Olivier at brushing off defenders that the Valke often call upon him to gain valuable running yards, even from their own try line. Experienced, consistent, and immensely valuable, Friedle Olivier is a hidden gem.