RATINGS: Frans Steyn fires for Boks!

The Boks began their end-of-year tour with a hard-earned win over Wales, and here we pick three players who inspired the South African team to triumph, with Frans Steyn leading the way.

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Frans Steyn (9)

The veteran came on earlier than expected after Damian Willemse had to prematurely leave the field, and he made a massive impact once again.

Steyn was one of the standout performers in the Boks’ victory over the All Blacks in the final Rugby Championship clash earlier this season, and continued from where he left off.

His massive boot and physicality brought a different dimension to the Springboks’ play, and ultimately helped shift the momentum in the second half. Like a good red wine, he seems to just get better and better with age.

Kwagga Smith (8)

The dynamic flank was industrious as ever, with the former sevens star continuing to cement his place as a solid option at No 7.

His energy and work rate was plain to see throughout this wet-weather encounter, while he was a real nuisance at the breakdown.

In a contest where the Springboks needed a game-breaker to make an impact, Smith stepped up to produce one of his most impressive Test performances to date. 

Siya Kolisi (7)

There could be few arguments to suggest the Bok captain will not be named the South African Player of the Year in 2021.

Kolisi has been incredibly influential in the key Tests against the British & Irish Lions and All Blacks this year, and once again was a prominent figure on Saturday. 

The powerful flank has grown into his role as a leader who boasts a real presence about him, while he continues to lead from the front each time he takes to the field.

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*The Springboks will next face Scotland before finishing their end-of-year tour against England.