The 2024 Rugby Championship concluded with the Springboks securing victory, marking this edition as the most competitive since the tournament began in 2012. Following the championship, a readers’ poll on Planet Rugby resulted in a Team of the Tournament, with over 13,500 votes cast on social media.
The selected team was overwhelmingly dominated by Springbok players, reflecting their strong performances throughout the tournament.
Team Breakdown:
1. Fullback: Aphelele Fassi (South Africa) received 60% of the votes, showcasing a commanding performance throughout the tournament, outpacing contenders like Beauden Barrett and Juan Cruz Mallia.
2. Right Wing: Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa) emerged as the clear favorite, claiming 85% of the votes with his exceptional play, far ahead of Will Jordan.
3. Center: Jesse Kriel (South Africa) continued his stellar form from the World Cup, garnering 81% of the votes, with Rieko Ioane receiving 11%.
4. Inside Center: Damian de Allende (South Africa) was recognized for his crucial role, winning 67% of the votes, well ahead of Santiago Chocobares.
5. Left Wing: Kurt-Lee Arendse (South Africa) had a strong showing with 47% of the votes, followed closely by Caleb Clarke and Mateo Carreras.
6. Fly-Half: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (South Africa) was voted the best fly-half with 62%, despite not finishing the tournament. Tomas Albornoz received 25%.
7. Scrum-Half: Grant Williams (South Africa) earned 53% of the votes for his impressive speed and pivotal moments, particularly in the match against the All Blacks.
8. Number 8: Ardie Savea (New Zealand) was the sole non-South African selection, recognized for his consistency with 46% of the votes.
9. Flanker: Siya Kolisi (South Africa) received 65% of the votes, reflecting his leadership and success as Springbok captain.
10. Blindside Flanker: Pieter-Steph du Toit (South Africa) dominated the voting with an impressive 87%, demonstrating his remarkable work rate and influence.
11. Lock: Ruan Nortje (South Africa) secured 43% of the votes, establishing himself as a key figure in the Springboks’ second-row.
12. Lock: Eben Etzebeth (South Africa) achieved a remarkable 93% of votes, underscoring his status as one of the game’s greats.
13. Prop: Frans Malherbe (South Africa) was recognized for his steady performance with 74% of the votes, solidifying his reputation in the scrum.
14. Hooker: Malcolm Marx (South Africa) became the forward with the most tries during the tournament, receiving 37% of the votes.
15. Loosehead Prop: Ox Nche (South Africa) rounded out the team with a staggering 90% of the votes, marking him as one of the top looseheads in the world.
Overall, the Team of the Tournament illustrates the Springboks’ dominance and showcases the talent displayed throughout the 2024 Rugby Championship, with South African players representing a significant majority.
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