As this content series draws to a close, we rank the three greatest props of all time, having considered players from every generation.
THREE GREATEST SPRINGBOK PROPS
1 Beast Mtawarira
A trailblazing icon of Springbok rugby. Mtawarira was a player of pure power, from the moment he truly announced himself on the world stage against the British & Irish Lions in 2009 to the fitting finale against England in the 2019 World Cup final.
Over an incredible 117-Test career, he made the No 1 jersey his own, dominating opposing tighthead props like very few that came before or after him.
A household name in the game, he is a true icon of Springbok rugby.
2 Os du Randt
If Mtawarira was the modern-day master at loosehead, Du Randt was the true OG, having forged a career that remains the stuff of legend.
A powerful scrummager, but also a prop with an incredibly high work-rate, Du Randt was a pillar of strength in 1995 during the Springboks’ famed World Cup triumph, while his legendary status was cemented when he made an incredible comeback at the 2007 showpiece.
He was undoubtedly one of the most special players to ever represent South Africa.
3 Frans Malherbe
Another player who has redefined perceptions in so many ways. At times, Malherbe has faced question marks over his conditioning, and yet the burly front rower has defied every imaginable critic with his remarkable work rate, defence and mobility to go with his ruthless scrummaging.
There is no one quite like Malherbe, who is one of the Springboks’ unsung heroes, and his impact over the last decade is simply unquestionable.
When he eventually retires, it will be an almost impossible task to replace the boots he leaves behind.
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Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/springboks/ranked-three-greatest-springbok-props/
