Ranked: Five greatest Springbok tries of all time

When looking back at the rich history of Springbok rugby, it’s impossible to keep count of the simply sensational tries that have been scored.

Nevertheless, here we attempt to rank the five greatest tries ever scored.

Springbok tries that stood the test of time

1 Makazole Mapimpi vs England (2019 World Cup final)

This was history in the making, representing the Springboks’ first try in a World Cup final, and that effectively put the team on track for the stunning victory in the 2019 title decider. Mapimpi’s chip-and-chase combined with Lukhanyo Am’s selfless, pinpoint “no-look” return pass was a masterclass in situational awareness. It’s no surprise that highlights of this try have racked up millions of views across various platforms.

2 Jaque Fourie vs British & Irish Lions (2009)

Jaque Fourie’s try in the second Test of the 2009 British & Irish Lions series at Loftus Versfeld is often cited as one of the most physically impressive finishes in the history of the game. Fourie received the ball near the touchline, roughly 15 meters out, with two Lions defenders – Ronan O’Gara and Tommy Bowe – closing in. Rather than trying to step inside, Fourie pinned his ears back and went for the corner, dotting down for a series-defining five pointer.

3 Danie Gerber v South America (1982)

Danie Gerber is widely considered the greatest outside centre in South African history. His ability to find gaps that didn’t exist was uncanny. It perfectly encapsulates why Gerber was so feared. He didn’t just outrun people, he made world-class defenders look like they were standing still. In the second Test against the South American Jaguars (essentially the Argentine national team), Gerber scored an incredible individual try. He received the ball 50 metres out and used a combination of explosive pace, a deceptive swerve, and sheer power to ghost through the entire defence.

4 Pieter Hendriks vs Australia (1995 World Cup opening match)

This try is the foundation of the Springboks’ World Cup legacy as South Africa played in their first-ever World Cup match after years of sporting isolation. Receiving the ball on the left wing, Hendriks faced David Campese, arguably the greatest winger in the world at the time. Hendriks took him on the outside, and as he accelerated past, he famously wagged his finger in celebration. It was more than a try, it was a statement. It signalled to the world that South Africa was back and capable of beating the best.

5 Cheslin Kolbe vs England (2019 World Cup final)

If Mapimpi’s try gave the Boks hope, Kolbe’s try sealed the trophy. It remains one of the most rewatched clips in rugby history, and this list would not be complete without it. Demonstrating pure “X-factor” brilliance as he received the ball out wide, Kolbe dramatically sidestepped England captain Owen Farrell and accelerated into the corner to put the game out of reach.

What do you think of this list, and which other tries would you add?

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