The 10 Greatest Springboks of All Time (Ranked 10–1)

Here's the 10 greatest players of all time to have pulled on the green and gold shirt.

As one of South Africa’s most respected captains, John Smit led the Springboks with calm authority and unity. He guided the team to World Cup glory in 2007, setting a benchmark for leadership that others still look up to. Playing mainly as a hooker, though also capable at prop, Smit was both dependable and adaptable.

His ability to keep a squad focused under pressure defined a golden era of Springbok rugby. By the time he retired after the 2011 tournament, he had earned 111 caps—the most ever by a South African at that stage.

Speed was Bryan Habana’s greatest weapon, and he used it to devastating effect. With a burst few defenders could match, he became one of the most prolific try-scorers in world rugby. His eight tries during the 2007 World Cup equalled Jonah Lomu’s record and were crucial to South Africa’s victory. Over 124 Tests, Habana scored 67 tries, a mark of consistency that few have matched.

Modern rugby has few forwards as complete as Pieter-Steph du Toit. Combining the strength of a lock with the mobility of a flanker, he sets the standard for work rate and physical commitment. His tackling, stamina, and consistency have made him a key part of South Africa’s success in recent years.

Twice named World Rugby Player of the Year, Du Toit’s performances in World Cup finals, especially his man-of-the-match display in 2023 against New Zealand, showed his ability to rise when it mattered most.

The echoing chant of “Beeaaast!” became one of rugby’s most familiar sounds thanks to Tendai Mtawarira. Born in Zimbabwe, he built a career defined by power, humility, and consistency. After making his debut in 2008, he went on to represent South Africa 117 times—more than any other prop in the nation’s history.

His explosive strength in the scrum and fearless ball-carrying helped anchor the Springboks’ 2019 World Cup triumph.

Few players have read a game as well as Victor Matfield. His skill in the line-out made him one of rugby’s great tacticians and a nightmare for opposition jumpers. Alongside long-time partner Bakkies Botha, he gave South Africa a foundation of control and composure in the forward pack. Matfield’s influence during the 2007 World Cup was immense, earning him recognition as the tournament’s standout player.

Intensity was at the heart of Schalk Burger’s game. He played every minute as though it were his last, throwing himself into tackles, rucks, and carries with relentless commitment.

A flanker who set the standard for physicality, Burger was named IRB Player of the Year in 2004 and won the World Cup three years later. Despite facing serious injuries and health scares throughout his career, he always fought back.

As the first black captain in Springbok history, Siya Kolisi became much more than a rugby player—he became a symbol of hope. His leadership transformed the national team, bringing together players and fans from every corner of South Africa.

Under his guidance, the Boks won back-to-back World Cups in 2019 and 2023, defeating England and New Zealand in finals built on belief and unity. Kolisi’s story, from humble beginnings in Zwide to global recognition, reflects resilience and integrity.

Few players controlled a game like Fourie du Preez. Calm, precise, and tactically sharp, he dictated the rhythm of matches from scrum-half, often several steps ahead of the opposition. His time with the Bulls and Springboks brought enormous success, including the 2007 World Cup and multiple Super Rugby titles. Twice named South African Player of the Year, Du Preez earned a reputation for decision-making under pressure.

Born on October 29, 1991, in Cape Town, Eben Etzebeth is one of the most dominant locks in rugby history. Standing 2.03m tall, he combines power, aggression, and intelligence to anchor the Springbok pack. Since debuting in 2012, he’s earned over 120 Test caps, playing pivotal roles in South Africa’s 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup victories.

Renowned for his fierce tackles and leadership, Etzebeth embodies the heart and physicality of Bok rugby. A modern legend, he remains the team’s ultimate enforcer — relentless, fearless, and a defining force in South Africa’s golden rugby era.

Fearless and driven, Joost van der Westhuizen stood at the centre of one of rugby’s most defining eras. As scrum-half, he helped guide South Africa to victory in the 1995 World Cup, a triumph that united a divided country.

Over 89 Tests, he became known for his sharp breaks, strong defence, and unwavering competitiveness. He also led the Boks to their first Tri-Nations title in 1998 and won two Currie Cup titles with the Blue Bulls.