The former Bok hooker selects a team of the best he played with and against for SA Rugby magazine.
15. PERCY MONTGOMERY
An accurate lefty and pin-point goal kicker, who could also bench press a helluva lot.
14. RUPENI CAUCAUNIBUCA
An absolute freak of nature. He had size, speed and skill.
13. JAQUE FOURIE
A strong runner with ball in hand and the joker of the team. You will always laugh in his presence.
12. ETTIENNE BOTHA
While Ettienne wasn’t the biggest centre, he had the biggest heart and an impressive sidestep off both feet.
11. BRYAN HABANA
The one and only. He had speed, passion and finishing skill.
10. NICK EVANS
I played with a few big names, including Derick Hougaard, Morné Steyn, Butch James and Luke McAlister, but ‘Snapper’ Evans was one of the most well-rounded flyhalves.
9. FOURIE DU PREEZ
A general on the field, Fourie could foresee a shift in the game way before it happened. He had a crisp pass and kicked superbly.
8. LOUIS PICAMOLES
He’s a big, strong ball-carrier who can make insane offloads.
7. THIERRY DUSAUTOIR (c)
He was a true leader and as tough as nails.
6. SCHALK BURGER
Schalk had a total disregard for his own safety and an engine that just kept going.
5. VICTOR MATFIELD
King of the lineout. He understood movement in the air, as well as jumping and timing. He was often just too quick for other locks.
4. BAKKIES BOTHA
The true destroyer.
3. CENSUS JOHNSTON
One of the biggest and strongest tightheads, who could carry and had skills.
2. ANDREW HORE
I’ve selected him purely for his tenacity. He was like a badger – tough, relentless and in your face.
1. GURTHRÖ STEENKAMP
Gurthrö is a strong scrummager, big ball-carrier and has an inflict-the-pain attitude. He’s a good friend too.
– This feature first appeared in SA Rugby magazine earlier in the year. The next issue of the magazine is on sale this week.
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