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Johannesburg - Springbok wing Ashwin Willemse became a father for the third time when his wife Shereen gave birth to a "solid" boy on New Year's Eve.
Little Sherwin ("I still have to confirm the name with his mother") arrived at 23:15 on Sunday, December 31. He was born in the Wilgeheuwel Hospital west of Johannesburg.
"I nearly kicked him back, but the doctor said it may lead to complications," an excited Willemse joked after the birth, adding that he had hoped for a New Year's baby.
The 25-year-old Springbok proudly revealed that Sherwin had weighed in at 3.3kg - "the heaviest of the whole lot that night."
"He looks more like a heavyweight boxer than a rugby player. If he does play rugby, I think he'll have to play in the front row."
Sherwin, who was born by Caesarean section, has a sister, Kiora (3), and a brother, Ashwin (18 months).
Shereen and the new arrival arrived home on Wednesday but have not felt up to facing photographers.
Willemse, however, could not contain his joy and gratitude. "I'm ecstatic! It is wonderful to father a child; to make your little contribution to the community.
"I think any father would be happy to see how a new baby comes into the world."
Shereen and Sherwin are healthy and happy, he added, and "recovering fast".
