Some iconic locks have performed for the Springboks through the years, and right here we tackle the unimaginable problem of making an attempt to rank the highest three of all time.
TOP THREE SPRINGBOK NO 5 LOCKS OF ALL TIME
1 Victor Matfield
Victor Matfield’s file because the most-capped Springbok of all time has solely simply been surpassed by Eben Etzebeth, and there’s no doubt that his 127 Take a look at appearances communicate volumes a couple of exceptional profession constructed on the pillars of supreme management, lineout prowess, and tactical nous.
Matfield’s work ethic and dedication had been additionally the stuff of legend, significantly his lineout evaluation that set him aside as a participant who not solely dominated this aspect of play on the sphere, however who was additionally a trendsetter off it.
The towering lock ended his iconic Take a look at profession on the age of 38, and with a litany of information in addition to the repute as one of many best Springboks of all time.
2 Louis Moolman
Amongst people who had been privileged sufficient to see Moolman in motion through the Nineteen Eighties, there are numerous who imagine that the highly effective lock was truly the best No 5 that South Africa has ever produced.
One other participant with a high tier repute within the lineouts, Moolman performed in 24 Checks and solid a particular legacy each with the Springboks and Northern Transvaal.
Former Springbok captain Wynand Claassen, who performed with Moolman since their junior days at Tukkies, was a type of who unequivocally described Louis Moolman as one of many ‘greats’”‘ of South African rugby.
“We performed collectively at practically each degree from membership degree to Springbok. Louis beat the perfect from all around the world. One by no means wanted to encourage him. He was at all times prepared and was a person of stature on the sphere.”
3 Mark Andrews
One other iconic determine, broadly recognised for his trademark headband, Andrews was an imposing powerhouse within the Springbok ahead ranks between 1994 and 2001.
After profitable the World Cup with a vital efficiency at eighthman within the remaining, he turned a fixture within the beginning group in his specialist place of lock, and fashioned a part of the Springboks’ first-ever Tri-Nations triumph in 1998.
His worldwide profession spanned 77 Take a look at matches, throughout which era he crossed the tryline 12 instances, whereas forming formidable partnerships with fellow locks like Kobus Wiese and Krynauw Otto.
DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS RANKING?
Tell us by leaving a remark beneath, or ship a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
Subscribe to The South African web site’s newsletters and observe us on WhatsApp, Fb, X and Bluesky for the newest information.
