Reach for the stars

There are few subjects that set the passions going as picking a Springbok team.

Start a discussion in a pub, make a speech, write and article about what you think the Bok team should be and you’re inviting a storm of fervent opinions and strongly worded disagreements.

But I don’t propose to go there. Soon we’ll be launching a “Springbok Barometer” on Boots and All so there will be plenty of time to get into that argument.

Instead, let’s take a look at players who have not yet represented their countries – either in tests or on tour.

Each year one of the fascinations of the Vodacom Super 12 is to watch bright new faces emerge and wonder how many of them will go on to make the very top.

A Dean Hall for instance. “El Gato” (The Big Cat) has finally been given an extended run in the Super 12 and has the look of the kind of wing that has historically prospered in the Springbok team. With every game he confirms that he may be another Ray Mordt, Gert Muller, Willem Stapelberg, Chris Pope or Corra Dirksen. I was among those who thought he might not be enough of a “footballer”, but I like what I’m seeing.

Hall therefore is the perfect choice for a “Super Comer XV.” He’s been as high as the SA A team but has yet to be awarded a senior cap.

Scanning the line-ups it is incredible how many uncapped players have made enormous strides this season while others – like the Sharks flanker Charl van Rensburg – have simply kept up the standard that should already have won recognition but for the iniquities of selectors.

There are some impressive young men out there. Flankers such as the pair of Aussie flyaway flankers, George Smith of the Brumbies and Phil Waugh of the Waratahs, have already been made Wallabies but a man such as the Highlander’s No8 Samiu Vahafalou is still waiting for the day someone will invite him into the ranks of the All Blacks.

In every position, other than prop, which seems to be a worldwide problem, I had a real battle to make my choices – especially the loose forwards.

Apart from Vahafalou, eighthmen such as Dion Muir (Chiefs), David Lyons (Waratahs) and Filo Tiatia (Hurricanes) have been outstanding while the list of flankers includes the like of Charl van Rensburg, Warren Britz (Sharks), Matua Parkinson (Blues), Koula Tukino (Chiefs), Finau Maka (Highlanders), Jerry Collins (Hurricanes) and Rodney So’oiala (Hurricanes).

Centre too is a position that has brought forward many players who might soon be playing for their countries – Trevor Halstead of the Sharks, Paul Steinmetz of the Hurricanes, Luke Inman of the Waratahs, Keith Lowen of the Chiefs and Adrian Jacobs of the Bulls among them.

Instead of me providing a list of names… you try it. Pick your “Super Comer XV” from players who have not yet earned a senior cap. This is mine.