It was always going to be difficult to top that in 2019, but off they went again in February, with Ndhlovu amongst the chosen few. This time the destination was Las Vegas for ... well, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

Not really, but for Ndhlovu it was not the best of trips as the Blitzboks delivered a below par performance at the HSBC Las Vegas Sevens and he fractured his wrist, which ruled him out for at least six weeks.

Three months later though and the 22-year-old is again off to the City of Lights for the final event of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, at the Stade Jean-Bouin on Saturday and Sunday. Like in 2018, he joins the squad as an injury replacement, this time Kurt-Lee Arendse, having done so with Branco du Preez a year ago.

“It is never nice to replace an injured player and good luck to Kurt-Lee and Stedman (Gans), I hope they have safe travels back to South Africa and a quick recovery," said Ndhlovu of his team mates.

In an ironic twist of fate, Arendse joined the Blitzboks for the first time to replace Ndhlovu following his injury in Las Vegas.

"The other funny thing is, last year I flew to Paris with Dewald Human, as he replaced Cecil Afrika, who got injured along with Branco du Preez. This time, Cecil is the one flying out with me as he is replacing Stedman. The nice thing about this is that we are a squad and everybody is ready to replace anyone whenever the need is there."

For the Standerton-born and raised flyer, not making the squad for the tournaments in London and Paris, was disappointing, but it also provided him time to shift some focus to his studies, or so he thought.

"I was supposed to write exams on Tuesday and Wednesday. I was up studying for an Economics exam until early this morning, as I was due to write on Tuesday, when coach Marius (Schoeman) phoned to say I might be needed in Paris. I was also due to write Business Information Systems on Wednesday," he said.

Ndhlovu hopes the Blitzboks can repeat their tournament victory from last year in Paris and said he would love to bring energy to the team.

"For me, I will do whatever to bring energy to the guys and make sure I am executing my roles and responsibilities. I am very happy to join the squad, although sad for the injured guys,” he said.

Springbok Sevens coach Neil Powell was pleased that Ndhlovu will get a chance to play again: “Mfundo has shown in the past that he can play at this level. This is also a great opportunity for him to gain more experience. He was probably a bit unlucky to miss out in selection in the first place.”

South Africa will face Australia, Wales and Kenya in Pool B of the HSBC Paris Sevens.