Who are you picking as the surprise Springbok starter against Wales at Twickenham in June?
Siya Masuku has been a revelation for the Sharks this season, effortlessly addressing the Durban side’s notable shortcomings at flyhalf.
The 27-year-old possesses big-match temperament in abundance, as evidenced by his match-winning penalty that sent the Sharks through to the Challenge Cup final, and maintains a natural calmness in his playmaking duties.
READ: Masuku magic steering Sharks home
With the Boks scrambling to find adequate cover at flyhalf, can Masuku replicate his Sharks heroics on the international scene?
Hacjivah Dayimani is undoubtedly talented, but the Stormers No 8 hasn’t been given the rub of the green as he doesn’t fit the conventional ‘mould’ of a Bok loose forward.
With the Cape superstar reportedly set for a move to France at the end of the season, is the time ripe for a Bok call-up?
Dayimani: It’s good to dream
Ethan Hooker has been another breakout star for the Sharks this season, and the 21-year-old centre has a bright future ahead.
A try-scoring debutant for South Africa at the 2023 World Rugby U20 Championship, Hooker has gone from strength to strength at the Sharks and a surprise Bok call-up against Wales is on the cards for the exciting youngster.
Mpilo Gumede has made the most of a career reboot in Pretoria, joining the Bulls from the Sharks this season. The 23-year-old has flashed in seven starts for Jake White, splitting time between No 8 and blindside flank.
The DHS old boy made the jump to the pros via SA Schools and Junior Springboks, and his athleticism, ball skills and nasty edge – housed in a 1.92m, 110kg chassis – has added real firepower to the Bulls back row.
Capped three times for the Boks, Aphelele Fassi has regained his superstar touch for the Sharks this season and looks as deadly as ever at fullback.
Fassi leads the 2023/24 URC stats for metres gained and clean breaks, is third for most carries, and fifth for successful carries. Does the Sharks fullback deserve a run against Wales?
David Kriel continues to go quietly about his work for the Bulls, so much so that it’s easy to forget he’s scored seven tries in the 2023/24 URC season.
READ: Bulls tie down top backline talent
Though he primarily operates on the wing for the Bulls, Kriel is a utility player and is just as comfortable playing fullback – the kind of versatility sought after by the Boks.
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
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