Kurt-Lee Arendse is one of the most impactful players on the planet, and a key stat reveals what makes the Springbok and Vodacom Bulls flyer so prolific.
The Cape-born outside back shot the lights out for the Boks and Bulls in 2023, and capped off a sensational year by helping South Africa win a record fourth World Cup.
He picked up where he had left off in 2022, dazzling fans with his pace, skill and try-scoring prowess, while the 27-year-old’s flourishing partnership with Willie le Roux and Canan Moodie at Loftus Versfeld bodes well for the national team.
BEST OF 2023: Arendse soars to success
The former Blitzbok star marked his World Cup debut with style, scoring the opening try of South Africa’s campaign, and dotted down against hosts France to take his international tally to 13 in 15 Tests.
Along with the likes of Cheslin Kolbe and Damian Willemse, Arendse is integral to Rassie Erasmus’ Bok plans for 2024 and beyond and, according to Opta stats, has laid down a marker for his challengers and rivals to measure up to.
94 – Of players to feature for 800+ minutes in major European club competitions in 2023, @BlueBullsRugby‘s Kurt-Lee Arendse was the only player to gain 90+ metres per 80 minutes:
94 – Kurt-Lee Arendse
83 – Josh Hodge
83 – Melvyn Jaminet
81 – Alex Newsome
80 – Brice DulinRapid. pic.twitter.com/Gn5WkWUhk3
— OptaJonny (@OptaJonny) January 4, 2024
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