Springbok no. 75 · Outside Centre
Syd de Melker
Sydney Clarence de Melker · Griquas
2Tests
0Tries
1Tours
19Age at debut
Test career
190319041906
First test
5 Sep 1903, age 19 · Outside Centre v Britain, Kimberley Athletic Club Ground, Kimberley
Last test
8 Dec 1906, age 22 · Outside Centre v England, Crystal Palace, London
Biography
Syd de Melker was a small but brave centre from a well-known Kimberley rugby family. Born in Kimberley on 31 March 1884 and educated at Kimberley Boys’ High, he played for Griqualand West.
He made his Test debut at 19 in the 0–0 draw with the British Isles in Kimberley in 1903. He then toured Britain and Ireland in 1906–07, playing in the 3–3 draw with England at Crystal Palace. He was valued for his defence and for playing either centre position. He died on 1 November 1953.
Test history
2 tests · 0 points| Date | Opponent | Venue | Position | Result | Province |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05 Sep 1903 |  Britain | Kimberley Athletic Club Ground, Kimberley | Outside Centre | D 0–0 | Griquas |
| 08 Dec 1906 |  England | Crystal Palace, London | Outside Centre | D 3–3 | Griquas |