Why Springboks of the future will scrum down on cork
Original article by cork-products.co.uk
Credit: rhino-turf.co.za
South Africa is often at the forefront of technical developments in the game of rugby. So, it’s no surprise to see the latest technical breakthrough to find a safer more resilient and weatherproof pitch using cork granules has recently been adopted in Southern Africa.
The demanding nature of rugby with frequent tackles, falls and direct ground impact, requires a surface that offers protection and comfort.
The Amorim Sports Infill Nature 19 is an eco-friendly cork-based infill that provides natural elasticity and energy absorption to help reduce fatigue and risk of injury – a key to daily training and competitive play.
Africa’s first artificial rugby field certified by World Rugby (WR)
Cork-based infill solutions engineered for high performance and elasticity. Credit: amorim-sports.com
Located in Windhoek, Namibia, where average daytime temperatures reach 35 °C, the Curro School pitch is Africa’s first synthetic rugby field certified by World Rugby.
Installation was carried out by Rhino-Turf and the project marks a major milestone for sustainable sports infrastructure on the African continent.
While conventional rubber or synthetic infills often amplify surface heat which compromise player comfort, they can also accelerate the release of microplastics.
By using 100% recyclable and natural cork infill, the new pitch provides a healthier environment for players and greater safety through a combination of superb shock absorption and a lower surface temperature compared with artificial turf fields which makes this infill an ideal choice for sports pitches nearer the equator.
“This project is more than a field – it’s a game-changer for rugby in our region. Our players now train on a world-class surface that supports both performance and the planet.”
Cork-based infill pitches are engineered to deliver high athletic performance and a soft, stable feel underfoot while ensuring a sustainable playing environment. Thanks to the unique properties of cork such as moisture absorption, natural touch, low heat retention and long-term dimensional stability, these infills are adaptable for the specific demands of rugby.
Credit: amorim-sports.com
Technical details – Amorim Sports’s Infill Nature 190:
Bulk density of 170–210 kg/m³ and a calibrated 1–2 mm granule size engineered for consistent play, long lifespan, and sustainability across all climate zones.
Natural heat resistance: Low thermal conductivity reduces surface temperatures by up to 30% compared to traditional synthetic infills.
Decay resistant: Natural Cork granules compress and rebound without permanent deformation, maintaining surface integrity and stability of performance throughout its lifespan.
100% recyclable natural cork infill: Free from toxic additives and maintains field integrity without chemical breakdown to ensure player and environmental safety.
Zero microplastics: To avoidpollution of surrounding ecosystems.
Fully recyclable: Can be repurposed at the end of its service life for other natural applications, supporting circular economy models.
With thanks to:
Amorim Sports: https://amorim-sports.com
Rhino-Turf: https://www.rhino-turf.co.za
Curro School Windhoek: https://curro.co.za