Overseas-based players remain central to Rassie Erasmus’ Springbok plans despite being far from the local spotlight, writes MARK KEOHANE.
Writing for the Sunday Times, Keohane says much of the Springboks’ recent success has been built on the consistency and class of players thriving abroad, with Cheslin Kolbe again leading the way after a sensational season for the Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath.
“Out of sight is often out of mind, but in Kolbe’s case, it can never be so,” Keohane writes.
Kolbe topped Japan’s Division One scoring charts with 185 points in 16 matches, adding goal-kicking to his arsenal while continuing to influence games as one of the world’s elite backs.
MORE: Stormers pull off Kolbe coup
Keohane highlights the broader Japanese contingent, from Malcolm Marx and Damian de Allende to Jesse Kriel, Faf de Klerk and Kwagga Smith, as proof that the Boks’ core strength extends far beyond South Africa’s borders.
Erasmus has also widened the overseas net. Bordeaux Bègles prop Carlü Sadie and Northampton Saints lock JJ van der Mescht earned places in the virtual alignment camp for overseas players after standout seasons in Europe.
KEO: Bordeaux prop Sadie the big Springbok winner
“Sadie’s career is peaking after a decade spent playing in Super Rugby, the URC, Top 14 and the Investec Champions Cup.”
For Keohane, the Springboks remain healthy across most positions ahead of the international season, but lock and scrumhalf still offer opportunities for fresh faces to break through.
CLICK HERE to read the latest issue of SA Rugby magazine
Photo: Toru Hanai/Getty Images
The post Overseas stars keep Boks strong appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Overseas-based players remain central to Rassie Erasmus’ Springbok plans despite being far from the local spotlight, writes @mark_keohane
The post Overseas stars keep Boks strong appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
