The Springboks' 2025 season was a rollercoaster of emotions, with highs and lows that left fans on the edge of their seats. But here's the twist: it's the forwards who stole the show, and we're rating every single one of them! Get ready for some controversial picks and surprising scores as we dive into the heart of South Africa's rugby powerhouse.
Loose Forwards:
Ben-Jason Dixon: A promising talent, but injuries kept him on the bench for most of the season. His brief appearances showcased potential, yet a red card cut his time short. Rating: 5.
Evan Roos: Despite shining for the Stormers, he only got 24 minutes in the Green and Gold. Erasmus' decision to snub him sparked debates, but his solid performance against Italy wasn't enough to make a compelling case. Rating: 5.
Jasper Wiese: A powerhouse with a brain explosion! His headbutt against Italy was a blight, but he's a vital cog in the Springboks' machine. Brilliant at the breakdown, he's a force to be reckoned with. However, his red card significantly impacted the team's plans. Rating: 9.
Kwagga Smith: The Oppenheimer of Bomb Squads! Smith's impact off the bench was crucial, turning matches around. A regular selection, he's a true game-changer. Rating: 8.
Marco van Staden: Underrated no more! Van Staden had a stellar year, excelling at the breakdown and with the ball. His two tries were the icing on the cake. Rating: 7.
Pieter-Steph du Toit: Nominated for World Rugby Player of the Year again, du Toit is a force of nature. His work rate and effectiveness are unmatched, and he's added leadership to his repertoire. Simply one of the best. Rating: 9.
Siya Kolisi: The captain reached a milestone, but his performances were solid rather than spectacular. A reliable presence, but not a standout year. Rating: 7.
Vincent Tshituka: Impressive against the Barbarians, Tshituka's debut against Italy was his only Test cap. He showed promise, but needs more opportunities to shine. Rating: 6.
Jean-Luc du Preez: Bad luck struck du Preez, with injuries and a concussion denying him starts. His aggressive style is undeniable, but he needs a break. Rating: 6.
Locks:
Cobus Wiese: A strong debut against Italy, followed by a shift to the back-row. He impressed at number eight, but injuries limited his appearances. Rating: 7.
Eben Etzebeth: A great player marred by a brainless act. The eye-gouging incident earned him a 12-match ban, overshadowing his strong performances. Rating: 7.
Franco Mostert: A tough year for Mostert, with a wrongful red card. Despite his age, he remains a tidy and busy player for South Africa. Rating: 6.
Jean Kleyn: Returning from injury, Kleyn's two appearances were solid. He's a dependable player, doing his job effectively. Rating: 6.
Lood de Jager: Unfortunate with a red card, de Jager's season was cut short. He was a force at the lineout and showed versatility. Rating: 7.
RG Snyman: Snyman's impact was felt in just two starts. His offloading ability and lineout excellence were standout features. Rating: 8.
Ruan Nortje: Overlooked in the past, Nortje is now one of the best locks in the world. His open-play lineouts and diesel engine-like stamina make him a key player. Rating: 9.
Salmaan Moerat: Captaining the side in his only appearance, Moerat struggled to make an impact. He's highly rated, but needs to step up next year. Rating: 4.
Hookers:
Bongi Mbonambi: Once a lineout maestro, Mbonambi's accuracy declined. While still a strong scrummager, his performances are on a downward trend. Rating: 4.
Johann Grobbelaar: Recalled for the November internationals, Grobbelaar impressed with accurate lineouts and replicated his club form. A solid addition. Rating: 7.
Malcolm Marx: The best hooker in the world! Marx's season was sublime, with outstanding performances and five tries. He's a breakdown specialist and a deserving World Rugby Player of the Year. Rating: 10.
Marnus van der Merwe: A debut to remember, with two tries against Georgia. He proved his worth with solid performances and set-piece work. Rating: 6.
Jan-Hendrik Wessels: Shining in all six caps, Wessels was a versatile talent. His suspension cut his season short, but he was in fine form. Rating: 7.
Props:
Asenathi Ntlabakanye: After a weight loss journey, Ntlabakanye earned his debut. He faced challenges but returned with a strong showing against Wales. Rating: 6.
Boan Venter: Decimating Ireland's Tadhg Furlong, Venter's shock call-up was justified. He added depth to the Boks' prop stocks. Rating: 7.
Gerhard Steenekamp: Returning from injury, Steenekamp was a destructive scrummager. His impact off the bench was immense. Rating: 8.
Neethling Fouche: A solid debut against Georgia, Fouche held his own. He's good enough for the highest level, but needs to make a bigger splash. Rating: 5.
Ox Nche: A nominee for World Rugby Player of the Year, Nche is the best prop in the game. His performances in 2025 reinforced his status. Rating: 8.
Thomas du Toit: A Dream XV selection, du Toit's shift to tighthead was deadly effective. He gave scrummaging lessons to opponents and filled Malherbe's shoes seamlessly. Rating: 8.
Vincent Koch: Like Mbonambi, Koch's involvement declined. His two appearances were solid, but he wasn't a standout. Rating: 5.
Wilco Louw: A breakout year for Louw, who replicated his club form at the highest level. His devastating scrummaging and try-scoring ability made him a force. Rating: 8.
Zac Porthen: A shock selection, Porthen became the youngest Bok prop in the professional era. He impressed against Japan and Wales, showcasing versatility. Rating: 7.
There you have it! Our ratings for the Springboks' forwards in 2025. Do you agree with our picks? Who do you think was the standout player? Let us know in the comments, and don't forget to share your thoughts on the controversial moments that shaped the season.
