Springboks Player Ratings: Who FIRED, Who FLOPPED
The Springboks demolished the Barbarians 54-7 at the DHL Stadium on Saturday, 28 June 2025.
Rassie Eramus and the Boks have plenty to celebrate following their resounding performance en route to claiming their thir successive Qatar Cup. These are the players who stood out as well as a couple of stars who were slightly underwhelming.
Lood de Jager – 9/10
Lood hasn't missed a step despite not playing for the Springboks in almost two years. The lanky Bok lock made countlies huge carries, getting over the advantage line at ease. He was also astute defensively and a solid line-out option for the Springboks.
Vincent Tshitshuka – 8.5
What a debut. The elusive Sharks flanker scored two tries to cap off a well-rounded performance in his first Springboks test. Tshitshuka agility and skills were on full display. Meanwhile, he was a solid third choice in the line-out.
Kurt-Lee Arendse – 8
Welcome back, Arendse. The speedy and skilful Springboks winger reminded the Bulls and SA Rugby what we have been missing since he left for Japan. Arendse finished off a beautiful well-worked team try in the corner and was a constant threat with ball in hand. He beat defenders at will with his fleet-footed stepping and lightning speed.
Cheslin Kolbe – 9
The 2024 SA Rugby Player of the Year reminded us all why he was given awarded this honour. Kolbe was one of the stand-out Boks. His try in the corner was just the start of what was another world class display from Kolbe. He was excellent in the air dominating the aerial battle in wet conditions. Kolbe was perfect defensively, putting in one solid hit after the other. He added memorable bounce off on Ricky Riccitelli in the second half and was a threat all afternoon.
*Please note that these players did not pay badly at all. They were just not as exceptional as the rest of the pack in what was a comprehensive display and dominance Springboks performance.
Jean Kleyn – 6/10
He did not do much wrong but he was certainly overshadowed by his Bok lock team mate, Lood. Kleyn struggled to get over the advantage line or to make dominant tackles. He was solid at line out time and did what he needed to but did not stand out.
Morne van den Berg – 6.5/10
He provided quick delivery from the base of the ruck. However, he certainly did not knock the selection door down and was outplayed by his replacement, Cobus Reinach.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The South African
3 hours ago
- The South African
Orlando Pirates news: Radiopane and Ndoro
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained why he continues to back under-fire striker Boitumelo Radiopane despite growing criticism from fans. The 21-year-old has already featured three times this season across the MTN8 and Betway Premiership but is still waiting for his first goal. His latest appearance came in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 semi-final first leg at Orlando Stadium, where he came off the bench and fluffed a late chance to win the game. 'These kinds of players, I think, it's easy for a coach because he has a fantastic mentality…Full story here. Orlando Pirates Football Club is in mourning following the passing of former striker Tendai Ndoro, who played for the Buccaneers between 2015 and 2017. Following his death at the age of 40 on Monday, the Buccaneers have extended their deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who loved him. Born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Ndoro rose to prominence at Chicken Inn before moving to South Africa with Mpumalanga Black Aces in 2013. His talent soon caught the eye of Orlando Pirates, where he became a fan favourite for his electrifying pace and knack for crucial goals…Full story here. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
4 hours ago
- The South African
PSL LOG: Kaizer Chiefs denied top spot despite win, Pirates remain bottom
Gaston Sirino's second-half strike was enough to give Kaizer Chiefs their third league win, keeping them second on the Betway Premiership log. Amakhosi came into the match having won two of their opening league games and were hoping for an emphatic win to climb to the top of the log. With leaders Durban City dropping points, it seemed as if Chiefs would go top, but Sekhukhune United's 3-0 win over Orbit College saw them top the Betway Premiership after three matches. Babina Noko lost 2-0 to Stellenbosch in the MTN8 semi-final first leg on Saturday, but Eric Tinkler's men will feel confident after a dominant win over new boys Orbit. Having accumulated nine points from three matches, Chiefs appear to be in the race for the league title. It is the first time since 2019/20 season that the Glamour Boys have had a flying start to their league campaign. Rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates have dropped points this season, but many are expecting the two teams to catch up soon rather than later. Both teams are in action on Wednesday and will look to close the gap. Kaizer Chiefs have not won the league in 10 years however they came close in 2020 after topping the log for over 12 months but ultimately threw it away on the last match. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
4 hours ago
- The South African
Orlando Pirates receive R35 million bid for Relebohile Mofokeng
Orlando Pirates star Relebohile Mofokeng celebrates a goal against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Betway Premiership. Image: Goal Orlando Pirates are now in the spotlight after MLS outfit Minnesota United reportedly submitted a $2-million (around R35 million) bid for Relebohile Mofokeng. The 20-year-old winger has impressed in the Betway Premiership, catching the eyes of scouts abroad with 12 goals and 15 assists last season. Will the Buccaneers accept the bid? ADVERTISEMENT ORLANDO PIRATES STAR RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG TO MINNESOTA UNITED? Orlando Pirates coach backs young striker Relebohile Mofokeng in action for Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership. Image: BackpagePix 'Minnesota United submit bid north of $2m for South Africa int'l winger Relebohile Mofokeng to Orlando Pirates. Talks ongoing,' MLS insider Tom Bogert reported. 'Mofokeng, 20, big talent breaking through for club and country. Would be U-22 initiative. MNUFC long-time admirers of Mofokeng,' Bogert added. Kaizer Chiefs coach involved from Tunisia It's not yet clear how Orlando Pirates will respond to the offer, but if Mofokeng were to make the move, it would be a huge step for the winger and a significant moment for the Soweto giants' transfer dealings. SHOULD THE BUCCANEERS ACCEPT THE OFFER? Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 ADVERTISEMENT Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
