With Damian Willemse ruled out until after the 2024 Rugby Championship, who are you picking to play fullback for the Boks?
Willemse suffered a finger injury during the Stormers’ win against Connacht in the URC. While it was initially hoped to be a simple sprain, a scan revealed the Bok fullback suffered ligament damage and requires surgery.
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Two-time world champion Willie le Roux has added a wealth of experience and expertise to the Bulls since joining them after winning the 2023 Rugby World Cup. His impressive form in the Vodacom URC, combined with the experience of 93 Tests, makes him an obvious candidate for the 15 jersey.
However, Aphelele Fassi has regained his superstar touch for the Sharks this season and the three-Test fullback looks as deadly as ever. Fassi leads the 2023-24 URC stats for metres gained and clean breaks, is second for most carries, and fifth for successful carries. Perhaps now is the time to recall the 26-year-old Sharks fullback?
Two-time World Cup-winning wing Cheslin Kolbe played most of his club rugby for the Stormers at fullback and frequently wore the 15 jersey during his time at Toulouse. Should the 31-Test dynamo plug the hole in the Bok back three?
Former Lions finisher, Tyrone Green has been sensational for Harlequins and is the latest in a long line of South Africans to capture the imagination of English Premiership pundits and fans.
Despite missing most of last season due to a severe ankle injury, Green started all 28 matches at fullback for Harlequins this season, scoring eight tries. Should Rassie Erasmus give Green his Bok debut?
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Quan Horn, who participated in the Bok alignment camp earlier this year, continues to elevate his game with each passing season at the Lions.
The 22-year-old started all 18 matches at fullback for the Lions this season, scoring seven tries. In the URC, his performance speaks volumes with 704 meters gained, 13 clean breaks, and 12 offloads.
Warrick Gelant has found his stride since joining the Stormers last year.
The 10-Test playmaker started at fullback in 16 of 18 matches for the Stormers this season, scoring two tries. He leads the URC in offloads and has evaded 32 defenders on 134 carries for 808 metres on 134 carries.
Photo: Gordon Arons/Gallo Images, Steve Haag Sports
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