So, we're just a fortnight away from the biggest sporting event in the rugby calendar, the Rugby World Cup. The squad has been named, all that is left is for the boys to give their all in the field of play in an attempt to do what no team has ever done, defending a Rugby World Cup title.

Tuesday’s squad announcement was not met with much negativity, in fact, the biggest talking point after the ceremony was the national anthem, but I won’t go into that

 Most selections were oviaas, while a few others raised some eyebrows, but in the end we all agree that this is the best squad we could’ve picked for this tournament, although we’ll have quite a bit of rebuilding to do afterwards.

The Sharks have contributed 8 players to the squad of 30 men in green and gold, 5 forwards and 3 backs. We’ll take a quick look at what each man brings to the Bok squad (in no order of importance):

 

Willem Alberts: Some call him “Big Vic”, others call him the “Bone Collector” – he’s one of the best ball-carriers in the country and a big tackler – strong attributes for a loosie. I hope he will pace himself well and really show up when we need him most.

 

Bismarck du Plessis: One of the top hookers in the world, Bissie is really one busy man, he tackles, he runs, he hits rucks – it’s like having three different players on the field. Should he start ahead of John Smit? I’ll let you answer that.

 

Jannie du Plessis: Dr. Jannie has consistently been one of the top props in the country over the years. A decent scrummager, also keen to run with the ball now and then. Jannie just gets on with his job, and every team needs a man like that.

 

Tendai Mtawarira: Beeeeeeeeeeast! Okay, now that I’ve got that out of the way, this guy covers a lot of ground for a prop, tackles, runs and yes he’s solid on scrums. He will definitely give the Boks a big boooooost coming off the bench.

 

John Smit: If things go well, he’ll go into the history books as the first captain to lift the Webb Ellis cup twice...in a row. If things don’t go well...he’ll take the chunk of the blame. Great leader, respected hooker. This is his third World Cup so naturally he’s not at the peak of his game, but he’s John Smit.

 

Odwa Ndungane: Not the quickest wing in the land, but Odwa is a hardworker, he’s good with the high ball, and he has a decent boot. Looking at how the Boks are going to play, his safety first approach will be more valuable than speed and flair.

 

JP Pietersen: He’s had his downs, but the World Cup seems to bring out the best in him. JP is a try-scorer and he’s always looking to spot gaps. I’m also expecting him to pitch in on defence with solid tackles and some try-saving dives.

 

Pat Lambie: At only 20 years of age, Pat is by far the youngest member of this “aging” Bok squad. He’s going there mainly as cover for a number of backline positions, but this is a long and bruising tournament so the young man is not going to New Zealand to be an observer, but because he has the brains and skills needed to play at this level.

 

The countdown has begun, but I’m positive that these Sharkies, and the rest of the Springbok squad, will make us proud to be South African, as always.

 

Go Bokke!!!