A colossal Springbok is one of two SA-born powerhouses earmarked to bulldoze opponents at rugby’s showpiece in France this year.
In a standout group of physically imposing players likely to feature at the World Cup compiled by Ruck.co.uk, the list includes an Irishman, a Welshman and an Englishman.
Giant winger Duhan van der Merwe, South Africa’s latest rugby export, has made a blockbuster impact for the British & Irish Lions and Scotland, and scored one of the greatest Six Nations tries in a memorable win over England in 2023.
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Renowned for his Herculean strength and hulking arms, Bok lock Eben Etzebeth reportedly flings heavy weight around like duck feather pillows during gym sessions.
Etzebeth, who captained South Africa against New Zealand less than two weeks ago, has been named to start against Argentina in the Rugby Championship on Saturday, while Van der Merwe is set to face Italy in a World Cup warm-up at Murrayfield.
Ruck’s Top 5 World Cup 2023 strongmen:
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland)
2. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland)
3. Leigh Halfpenny (Wales)
4. Maro Itoje (England)
5. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa)
Photo: EPA/Gavin Barker/BackpagePix