Evan Roos marked his first Test since last August with a sensational performance as the DHL Stormers loose forward showed his quality at No 8 for the Springboks.

Roos made his third Test start as the Springboks opened their 2024 campaign with a comfortable victory over Wales at Twickenham on Saturday afternoon.

Playing in the No 8 jersey, the 22-year-old Stormers star made his impact felt, especially on attack, as he made 125 metres from 13 carries and beat three defenders.

Also returning to the Springboks’ starting lineup was Makazole Mapimpi, who dotted down in his first Test since suffering a tournament-ending injury in the 2023 World Cup pool stage.

Mapimpi scored his 27th try in his 42nd Test match, putting him tied with Jean de Villiers in fourth place on the Springboks’ top try-scorers list.

The veteran’s try-scoring rate of 64% is currently the best strike rate of any Springbok in the top 10, ahead of record-holder Bryan Habana (54%).

Photo: Paul Harding/Gallo Images

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Src: sarugbymag.co.za