The Springboks, South Africa’s national rugby team, have a long and storied history, with a number of legendary players who have left a lasting impact on the game. While it’s impossible to narrow down the list to just five, there are a few players who stand out as the greatest of all time. These are the players who have transcended the game and who have become a symbol of a nation.
1. Siya Kolisi: Siya Kolisi is more than just a rugby player; he is a symbol of a new, inclusive South Africa. He was the first black captain of the Springboks, and he led the team to a historic Rugby World Cup victory in 2019. His leadership on and off the field has made him a national icon, and he is a powerful symbol of the country’s journey to a more united and just society.
2. Bryan Habana: Bryan Habana is one of the greatest wingers of all time. He was a force of nature on the field, with blistering speed and an uncanny ability to score tries. He was a key part of the Springbok team that won the 2007 Rugby World Cup, and he holds the record for the most tries scored by a Springbok. His explosive talent and his a long and successful career make him one of the greatest players to ever wear the green and gold.
3. Joost van der Westhuizen: Joost van der Westhuizen was a scrum-half who changed the way the game was played. He was known for his physicality and his ability to take on opposing players with a number of tricks. He was a key part of the Springbok team that won the 1995 Rugby World Cup, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest scrum-halves of all time.
4. Francois Pienaar: Francois Pienaar is a legendary Springbok captain who is a symbol of a nation’s journey to reconciliation. He was the captain of the team that won the 1995 Rugby World Cup, a victory that united the country after decades of apartheid. His leadership on and off the field was a crucial part of the victory, and he is a powerful symbol of a nation coming together.
5. Os du Randt: Os du Randt was a prop who was a force of nature on the field. He was known for his immense strength and his ability to dominate opposing players in the scrum. He was a key part of the Springbok teams that won the 1995 and 2007 Rugby World Cups, a rare feat that makes him a true rugby legend.