In the modern era, Kurt-Lee Arendse stands tall as the leading Springbok when it comes to the best ‘try scoring ratio’, with 21 tries in 27 Tests putting the fleet-footed wing at 77.8%.
The only Springbok with a better ratio than that is legendary Danie Gerber (79.2%), while the next best is Makazole Mapimpi (70.2%).
It’s not only as a try-scoring machine that Arendse has set himself apart, but also as a courageous defender and kick-and-chase dynamo.
In the three Tests Arendse has played in this year (against Italy, Georgia and the second Test against Australia), he has scored a try in each game, but unfortunately he picked up a hamstring injury in the Ellis Park loss to the Wallabies.
It’s since been revealed that Arendse is also battling with a knee issue, and it now seems that the 29-year-old will miss the rest of the Rugby Championship.
His presence has been sorely missed by the Springboks, but he should at least be back for the end-of-year tour in November.
REMINDER OF THE REMAINING SCHEDULE FOR 2025 AS THE SPRINGBOKS WAIT FOR THE RETURN OF KURT-LEE ARENDSE:
- 13 September: vs New Zealand, Wellington. Kick off: 09:05.
- 27 September: vs Argentina, Kings Park, Durban. Kick off: 17:10.
- 4 October: vs Argentina, London. Kick off: 15:00.
- 1 November: vs Japan, Brighton. Kick off: TBD.
- 8 November: vs France, Paris. Kick off: 22:10.
- 15 November: vs Italy, Turin. Kick off: 14:40
- 22 November: vs Ireland, Dublin. Kick off: 19:40.
- 29 November: vs Wales, Cardiff. Kick off: 17:10.
How much do you think the Boks have missed KLA?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
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