The Autumn Nations Series is set to ignite when South Africa and England clash at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday. However, this isn’t the first time the two countries have combined to create something extraordinary, with Durban-born rugby ace Brad Barritt serving as a prime example.
The former England international – who earned 26 caps for his adopted country – has found significant success post-retirement with his Tiki Tonga Coffee Roasters business. The 38-year-old was still at the peak of his powers at Saracens – with whom he clinched five Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups – when he launched the coffee company in 2016.
Since then, the ex-South Africa under-21 star has seen his venture grow exponentially. Tiki Tonga – based in Welwyn Garden City near Saracens’ Stone X Stadium in Hertfordshire – has become a familiar sight at some of London’s premier sporting venues.
However, Wales Online reported that Tiki Tonga coffee is not just for English consumers. The company has expanded internationally and is now available in South Africa, the home country of co-founder Barritt.
Despite representing England rather than the Springboks in rugby, Barritt hopes his fans won’t hold it against him. He ventured into the coffee business after recognising the beverage as “an integral part of many people’s daily routine.”
A quote from Barritt in the company’s mission statement reads: “Whether it be that morning Americano with my family, or the quick Espresso shot to fire me up before training or the Flat White when reuniting with friends.”
Barritt, who retired at Saracens in 2020, faced the Springboks four times during his career. However, his best result was a 14-14 draw during England’s 2012 tour of South Africa, losing on the other three occasions.
He’s bound to be cheering both sides on Saturday as England attempt to bounce back from consecutive defeats against New Zealand and Australia. A third straight loss to the reigning world champions could spell trouble for head coach Steve Borthwick, but a former Saracens team-mate of his might just have the perfect remedy.
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