MARK KEOHANE praises the returning World Cup-winning Springboks for their impactful performances across various clubs and franchises in SA and overseas.

Writing for TimesLIVE, Keohane highlights the efforts from Eben Etzebeth and Willie le Roux, as well as the high level of professionalism from Siya Kolisi, Marvin Orie, Handre Pollard and Jasper Wiese, dispelling any notion of a World Cup hangover.

Former Bok coach Jacques Nienaber also began his role with Irish giants Leinster this week, and Keohane acknowledges his characteristic focus on work rather than fanfare.

He emphasises the influence and leadership the returning Boks bring to their teams, with coaches noting their impact on younger and less experienced players.

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“It didn’t matter where they were playing or for whom they were playing, these Springboks continue to make a statement of why they are the world’s best,” Keohane writes.

“Typical of Nienaber, it was straight to work. Members of the Leinster coaching staff and playing group were quoted as saying he arrived, said hello, got given a clap and was immediately sharing insights and data relevant to the squad and their next opponents.

“Coaches I have spoken to have raved about the attitude of the returning Boks. They have arrived with confidence and humility and many of the younger and internationally inexperienced players have returned with a transformative maturity.

“Christmas, for those South African URC coaches, has come early with the gift of world champion players.”

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