The Springboks displayed heroism in their victory over the All Blacks, securing their fourth Rugby World Cup title. This triumph marks an unforgettable journey, with the possibility of bidding farewell to four seasoned stars.
The South African Rugby World Cup squad included Deon Fourie (37), Duane Vermeulen (37), Trevor Nyakane (34), and Willie le Roux (34) as the only players born in the 1980s. Duane Vermeulen’s exceptional performance in Yokohama four years ago, where he was named Man of the Match in the final against England, remains etched in memory. Deon Fourie, a versatile impact player, rolled back the years in Paris to claim rugby’s most coveted prize. However, it’s doubtful whether Trevor Nyakane and Willie le Roux will make the cut for the next World Cup squad.
Experience played a pivotal role in the Springboks’ World Cup victory, with several players on the wrong side of 30, such as Bongi Mbinambi, Steven Kitshoff, Frans Malherbe, Eben Etzebeth, Franco Mostert, Siya Kolisi, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Faf de Klerk, and Kwagga Smith. Despite their age, there is no indication that they plan to retire soon, and many of them are likely to compete in another World Cup.
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