international – SA Polo

Nedbank International Polo

The 2025 Nedbank International Polo on 17 May between South Africa and Argentina delivered one of the most exciting and fiercely contested matches in recent memory.

The South African team, a dynamic blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience, displayed determination and grit in every chukka. Jack Spilsbury and Adrian Lavarinhas, brought raw enthusiasm and relentless drive, while the more experienced captain Tom de Bruin and Jean du Plessis offered composure and strategic insight that helped anchor the team during critical moments.

Ultimately, Argentina’s accomplished team of Juan Harriott, Manuel Sundblad, captain Tomas Alberdi, and 3-goaler Eulogio Olariaga, led their team to a hard-fought 14 – 12 victory over the home side.
From start to finish, the match was a testament to skill, tenacity, and unyielding determination from both teams. The coveted MVP prize was deservingly awarded to 18-year old Jack Spilsbury and the prestigious Best Playing Pony prize was awarded to Selby Williamson’s ‘Trini’s Greenlight’ who was ridden by Argentina’s Juan Harriott.

The day started with a curtain raiser match affording some of South Africa’s up-and-coming young polo players an opportunity to play before the main event. The Blesboks Team, which included Alice Eustace, Bayley Evans, Dean Davis and Jannemann Jordaan took a narrow 6 – 5 victory over the Impalas Team comprised of Zoe Brooke-Leggatt, Charlie Spilsbury, Harry Latter and Max Hill.

A heart-warming moment took place at the conclusion of the match when the teams were symbolically given their prizes by some of South Africa’s veteran past SA National Players and SAPA Presidents.
The South African Polo Association extends its heartfelt thanks to our valued partners, pony lenders and wider polo community, without whom this unforgettable day would not be possible.

A special thank you to Nedbank, our headline partner, for their continued support and commitment to the sport. We are also incredibly grateful to our key partners: American Express, Glenfiddich Single Malt Whisky, EQUUS, and Stella Artois, whose contributions helped elevate the experience. Additional thanks go to Ultimate Provence, Spitz, Jägermeister Manifest, Ferrari, La Martina and the beautiful Inanda Club for their generous support and partnership.

Finally, our sincere thanks to the AAP and the touring Argentine team for their invaluable support in making this International encounter possible, as well as all the pony lenders who generously put forward their prized horses to be loaned to the touring side. Together, they helped make the 2025 Nedbank International Polo a truly world-class event.

Brilliant sunshine and clear blue skies set the stage for bold looks in true equestrian avant-garde style. Combined with superb hospitality, delicious food, flowing drinks, and world-class polo, the Nedbank International Polo once again delivered an exceptional experience. We can’t wait to host you all again at next year’s event!