SA players hail Etzebeth the best

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Eben Etzebeth has been crowned MyPlayers Players’ Player of the Year after helping the Springboks win an unprecedented fourth World Cup in 2023.

The Bok enforcer finished top of the tree after edging out fellow Bok World Cup winners Kurt-Lee Arendse, Manie Libbok, Frans Malherbe and Damian Willemse.

Shilton van Wyk and Rights Mkhari were named sevens and women’s Player of the Year, respectively.

They all received the majority of the votes – cast by their peers – in their respective categories.

“On behalf of MyPlayers, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Eben, Shilton and Rights for being recognised as the outstanding award winners of 2023,” MyPlayers chairperson Jean de Villiers said.

“Their achievements not only signify personal excellence but also contribute to the collective success of the game.

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“As we celebrate their success, let us also acknowledge the hard work and support of those who have been part of their journeys.”

He added: “This year’s competition was exceptionally fierce with five Rugby World Cup winners being nominated for the Player of the Year.

“One player, in particular, has had an incredible season.

“Eben Etzebeth has surely solidified his status as a legend of the game, with his back-to-back World Cup triumphs, to being nominated for the World Rugby Awards 2023 and his inclusion in the Men’s 15s Dream Team of the Year.

“His commitment to the game, both on and off the field makes him a worthy awardee. A huge congratulations to him!”

Photo: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

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