The former Cheetahs and Bulls flyhalf, and 2012 Hall of Famer, picks a team of the best he has played alongside and against.

15. Cecil Afrika

You constantly hope the opposition will kick to him, so you can marvel at the art of a confident counter-attack. It is poetry in motion.

14. Victor Olonga

Africa’s Prince of Wings. He had speed, skills and was a great reader of the game. One of Zimbabwe’s finest talents.

13. Conrad Smith

Fundamentally, he is the perfect 13. Any centre who takes us out on the town after we beat them makes my team.

12. Ettienne Botha

The most confident and skilful player I played alongside. He was a top-class teammate who made us all feel welcome.

11. Bryan Habana

If ever there was a playmaking wing, he was it. You just had to give him the ball and admire what would follow. He was phenomenal.

10. Dan Carter

One of the most difficult opponents I faced. The questions he asked were of such a variety you just could not strategise for them. The complete flyhalf in all departments.

9. Fourie du Preez

An extremely good decision-maker with a pass I could take flat or deep. A flyhalf’s dream.

8. Rassie Erasmus (c)

One of the most intelligent players I played with. His micro-skills within the game were off the charts. He has an unbelievable understanding of all aspects of the game.

7. Juan Smith

Had the privilege of playing with Juan in his breakthrough year in 2003. He was a complete modern-day openside flank. Way ahead of his time.

6. Andre Venter

If you want to read up on what the perfect blindside flank would be, ‘Mr Fiksheid’ would be the only example.

5. Victor Matfield

The best lineout exponent I have seen at work. Every ball was ours, whether it was their throw or ours. He was great in the loose too.

4. Bakkies Botha

Any lock who has his flyhalf’s back is good for me.

3. Dougie Heymans

Looking at him, you wouldn’t say he is a scrumming prop, but the stories of his prowess are all absolutely true.

2. Hanyani Shimange

A skilful, physical hooker who also loved running off your shoulder for trick plays.

1. Gurthro Steenkamp

There is nothing better than a rampaging prop when you are looking to play running rugby.

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