The Springboks have always been fortunate to have an abundance of extraordinary talent on the wing.
Selecting the greatest of the great can be a tricky task, especially when there have been so many standout players over the years.
However, we’ve narrowed it down to the top three right wings of all time, focusing primarily on players from the 1990s onwards, as the game turned professional.
1. Cheslin Kolbe: A Once-in-a-Generation Talent
Cheslin Kolbe may only be 31 years old and still has several years ahead of him, but his impact on the game has already been nothing short of exceptional.
Kolbe’s journey with the Springboks started in 2018, and since then, he has redefined what it means to be a wing, especially for players of smaller stature. H
is incredible speed, agility, and skill make him stand head and shoulders above his peers.
Kolbe’s most iconic moments include his breathtaking try in the 2019 World Cup final, which played a pivotal role in securing the victory.
He also left fans in awe with his solo try in the third Test against the British & Irish Lions in 2021.
His remarkable charge-down of a conversion in the World Cup quarter-final against France was another highlight, proving his influence in key moments.
Having been nominated twice for the World Rugby Player of the Year (in 2019 and 2024), and crowned SA Rugby Player of the Year, Kolbe’s legacy continues to grow.
His career is far from over, and it’s safe to say that he’s left an indelible mark on Springbok rugby.
2. JP Pietersen: A Physical Force on the Wing
JP Pietersen is another Springbok wing who broke the mold.
Though he initially played at fullback and left wing, Pietersen made his name in the No. 14 jersey, where he spent the majority of his impressive 70-cap career.
Standing at 1.90m and weighing around 100kgs, Pietersen wasn’t the typical speedy winger; instead, his physicality, long stride, and ability to break through tackles made him a force to be reckoned with.
By just 23 years old, Pietersen was already a key player in several victorious campaigns, including the 2007 World Cup, the 2009 British & Irish Lions series, and the Tri-Nations that same year.
He developed an iconic partnership with Bryan Habana, becoming one of the most formidable wing duos in Springbok history.
Pietersen’s blend of size, skill, and intelligence made him one of the best wingers to ever wear the green and gold.
3. James Small: A Pioneer of the Springbok Wing
James Small was a true trendsetter in Springbok rugby, renowned for his combative style and fearless personality.
Small was one of the first players to truly represent the Springboks as a “poster boy,” earning a place in the hearts of fans across the globe.
His aggressive play and unmatched determination on the field made him a standout player in the 1990s.
One of Small’s most iconic moments came in the 1995 World Cup final, where he famously defended against the legendary Jonah Lomu, preventing the All Blacks winger from scoring.
This moment alone cemented his status as a Springbok icon.
Small continued to be an influential figure in South African rugby, playing in the 1997 British & Irish Lions series and scoring a brace of tries in South Africa’s massive win against Scotland.
He retired with 20 tries in 47 Tests, and his passing in 2019 left a void in the rugby world, as fans mourned the loss of one of the game’s greats.
Honorable Mention: Jannie Engelbrecht
Although Jannie Engelbrecht falls outside the criteria for this particular ranking, he deserves a special mention.
Playing in the 1960s, Engelbrecht became renowned for his exceptional try-scoring ability, not just in international matches but also in numerous non-international games.
His contributions to Springbok rugby cannot be overlooked, and his legacy lives on in the history of the sport.
Do You Agree with the Rankings?
These rankings are, of course, open to debate. Do you think there are other players who deserve a spot in the top three? Feel free to leave a comment below, or reach out via WhatsApp to let us know your thoughts.
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