Springbok fans will either be thrilled at the prospect of Willie le Roux sparking a dazzling attacking move, or dread the possibility of the mercurial fullback botching a simple catch or pass.
He is a World Cup champion, Rugby Championship winner and World Rugby Player of the Year nominee with 74 Test caps under his belt, yet the Bok playmaker divides the opinion of SA supporters like none other.
Le Roux, who turns 33 on 18 August, plays a key role in the Bok attack, standing in at flyhalf whenever Handre Pollard has made a run at the line, and remains one of the best communicators and organisers on defence for Jacques Nienaber’s charges.
He is among the most experienced holdovers of South Africa’s 2019 World Cup-winning squad, and he forms a fearsome back three with Makazole Mapimpi and Cheslin Kolbe.
During that World Cup campaign, he was criticised by South African fans for his perceived failings, and it was only in the Bok documentary ‘Chasing the Sun’ that they were given insight into the importance of his role, which stretched far beyond catching high balls.
Le Roux played through a serious injury that left his shoulder numb in South Africa’s three playoff matches against Japan, Wales and England, and was highly influential in the final.
His naysayers should look no further than fellow veteran Frans Steyn to see the benefits of having a versatile and seasoned campaigner in the backline for the men in green and gold.
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Faced with a trio of challengers for the Bok No 15 jersey in Aphelele Fassi, Warrick Gelant and Damian Willemse in 2022, Le Roux lost his starting berth to Willemse in the Wales series and needs to deliver a spectacular Test season to win over critics and regain his place as a starter in the team that will mount a world title defence in France next year.
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Veteran Springbok fullback Willie le Roux’s positive attitude towards the criticism he receives. ?
?️: https://t.co/Mr3UlPHU9j pic.twitter.com/YYAbFmwaEZ
— SA Rugby magazine (@SARugbymag) August 2, 2022
Photo: @Springboks/Twitter
