Sanele Nohamba will certainly remember his and Emirates Lions’ debut season in the EPCR Challenge Cup.

The scrum-half featured four times as the Johannesburg-based side reached the quarter-finals and was instrumental in their stunning Round of 16 thrashing of TOP 14 heavyweights Racing 92.

Emirates Lions’ maiden knockout stage encounter in the competition was Nohamba’s third game, with the former Cell C Sharks man having turned out twice in the pool stage.

He would star in the 51-28 victory at Emirates Airline Park, amassing 18 points as he crossed for a try on 66 minutes and kicked excellently, dispatching five conversions and a penalty.

Although Emirates Lions’ quarter-final at Glasgow Warriors would end in a 31-12 defeat, Nohamba showcased his qualities once again.

After seeing one score ruled out for a double movement, he notched a second EPCR try when he took a penalty quickly and darted over deep into overtime at the end of the first half.

At 24, Nohamba still has stacks of potential to fulfil and will be hoping to help Emirates Lions to the EPCR Challenge Cup knockout stage again when they face USAP, Newcastle Falcons, Montpellier Hérault Rugby and Ospreys in the 2023/24 pool stage.

After South African clubs debuted in EPCR competitions last season, we’re taking a look at some of the players who enjoyed standout campaigns and will be seeking to make a further impression in 2023/24.