Identifying the 50 greatest rugby players in over a century of South African history is a formidable undertaking, according to the authors of The Chosen: The 50 Greatest Springboks of All Time. Authored by the late Paul Dobson alongside Andy Colquhoun, the third edition of the book navigates the complex task of evaluating players across a span exceeding 130 years, complete with a carefully curated matchday 23.
Tracing the Evolution of Springbok History
Based on the book’s background details, the publication process started with a debut edition from Don Nelson Publishers in 2003, which featured only Joost van der Westhuizen as a contemporary active player. A second edition followed in 2011 after South Africa’s triumphant 2007 World Cup victory. Modern icons and double-World Cup champions including Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Cheslin Kolbe, Handré Pollard, Malcolm Marx, Duane Vermeulen, and Frans Steyn are included in the most recent version.
To evaluate players across generations, the authors avoided modern popularity contests and anchored their selections in historic rating systems, according to the book’s publication notes. They supplemented expert analysis with closely guarded insights and rankings from South African rugby luminaries, including Danie Craven and AF Markotter. Every chapter dedicated to the chosen 50 players explores careers, playing styles, historical significance, and statistical records.
The Ultimate Matchday 23 Selection
The book outlines a definitive Springbok XV and replacement bench representing eras from early pioneers to modern professionals. According to The Chosen, the starting lineup features HO de Villiers at fullback, Cheslin Kolbe and Carel du Plessis on the wings, Danie Gerber and Japie Krige in the centres, Naas Botha at flyhalf, and Fourie du Preez at scrumhalf. The forward pack lists Doug Hopwood at eighthman, Hennie Muller and Pieter-Steph du Toit on the flanks, Frik du Preez and Eben Etzebeth at lock, Boy Louw and Os du Randt as props, and Malcolm Marx at hooker.
The replacement bench includes Jan Lotz, Chris Kock, Jan Ellis, Victor Matfield, Phil Mostert, Joost van der Westhuizen, Hansie Brewis, and Bryan Habana, as published in the text. The book is priced at ZAR494.99, though some major retailers like Exclusive Books and Bargain Books have offered promotional pricing.
Did you know? The first edition of The Chosen in 2003 featured just one active player—Joost van der Westhuizen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who authored The Chosen: The 50 Greatest Springboks of All Time?
The book was authored by Andy Colquhoun and the late Paul Dobson.
Which modern players are included in the third edition?
The latest rankings include double-World Cup champions such as Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Cheslin Kolbe, Handré Pollard, Malcolm Marx, Duane Vermeulen, and Frans Steyn.
How were the player rankings determined?
The authors relied on historic rating systems alongside insights and rankings from historical figures like Danie Craven and AF Markotter, according to the book’s overview.
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