Bismarck du Plessis is on the cover of the new issue of SA Rugby magazine, on sale now.
The hooker has taken on more responsibility as one of the Boks’ vice-captains, and as the skipper of the Sharks in 2014. Somehow, he has also managed to improve as a player.
‘The other players see Bismarck setting the standard, and it rubs off on them,’ says Springbok forwards coach Johann van Graan. ‘They want to follow suit. He’s got that dynamic sort of personality. You can’t help but feel inspired.’
Van Graan goes on to explain exactly what improvements Du Plessis has made to his game.
Also in the new issue:
– Victor Matfield has proved he can not only survive but excel at Test level again. Now he’ll play a key role in the Springboks’ assault on the No 1 ranking
– The Springboks desperately need someone to step up and fill the void Fourie du Preez leaves at scrumhalf
– A revived, refreshed and reinvigorated Jerome Kaino is living proof that a stint in Japan is no kiss of death for your career
– Matt Toomua overcame several obstacles on his way to the top
– Argentina’s new captain Agustín Creevy has finally secured the No 2 jersey
– The Sharks had a good Super Rugby season despite not reaching the final
– Tonderai Chavhanga was struggling physically and financially when Jake White offered him one last chance to revive his career
– A once potent Super Rugby product will be further diluted when the competition expands to 18 teams in 2016
– The Blitzboks took gold at the Commonwealth Games after ending New Zealand’s 30-match winning streak
– Eastern Province were crowned unofficial champions of the U18 Craven Week in Middelburg
