Africa-Press – South-Africa. This season’s Currie Cup has already proven fertile ground for the tournament’s stalwart but non-URC sides to showcase their leading players and attract contract offers from bigger teams.
The Pumas duo of flyhalf Tinus de Beer and lock Deon Slabbert will taste URC action in Wales with Cardiff and the Dragons, respectively, while prop Ig Prinsloo and centre Diego Appollis are off to the Sharks.
Griquas play-maker Zander du Plessis is off to the Lions.
Yet several other contenders deserving of an opportunity have emerged, too.
News24 takes a look at five contenders.
The Cheetahs unearthed several gems, but they haven’t been considered due to their participation in the European Challenge Cup.
SOKUPHUMLA ‘SOSO’ XAKALASHE (Griffons)
At 29, he probably doesn’t have much time on his side, but the man affectionately nicknamed Soso certainly seized his opportunity to showcase his wares at a higher level.
A compact, versatile option in the back-row, Xakalashe was a bundle of energy when he had the ball in his hand, proving a proficient carrier.
But it was his work rate on defence that stood out, particularly when the lowly Northern Free Staters were under the cosh.
Xakalashe completed 10 or more tackles per match in six matches during the campaign, including a heroic 17 against Western Province and Blue Bulls each.
The edges are still rough, but consistent exposure to a more engaging environment could see him become a late bloomer.
HANRU SIRGEL (Griquas)
The Griquas skipper was cruelly denied a URC shot at the start of last season with the Lions when a knee injury curtailed his plans.
Yet the 25-year-old returned from that setback stronger than ever, maintaining his customary high standards during a campaign where the Peacock Blues couldn’t reach the highs of the previous season.
While always leading the way in the dark art that is scavenging at the breakdowns, the already imposing loose forward stayed in his favoured blindside position and became a monstrous carrier, invariably knocking defenders back and creating momentum on attack for his team.
Add into the mix a newfound maturity as captain and this former Tuks star deserves his shot.
JC PRETORIUS (Lions)
There can be little doubt that this Blitzboks star has all the attributes to be the Lions’ answer to the longstanding question of how to replace Kwagga Smith.
Pretorius was gradually and astutely introduced to the 15-man game by Lions mentor Mziwakhe Nkosi and has provided numerous glimpses of his X-factor attacking and handling abilities, impressing with his ability to find space.
Unsurprisingly, as a sevens exponent, he’s already a fine defender – you have to be in that format – and now needs to be exposed to the rigours of the URC.
He still needs to show composure in the tighter matches, but, as Smith illustrated, it shouldn’t take long.
DEVON WILLIAMS (Pumas)
The fleet-footed fullback has simply become better with age.
After years of mixing the sublime with mediocre, the 31-year-old has become the fulcrum of the Pumas’ backline.
His boot has become increasingly booming and secure, supporting Tinus de Beer’s kicking game well, while he’s excellent under the high ball and still relishes making those magical incursions into the line from basically nothing.
If ever there was a versatile utility back to provide depth, he’s it.
JOHAN MULDER (Griquas)
Did Jake White stick with the wrong Tuks scrumhalf?
It’s a valid question following a campaign where the blonde-haired halfback really established himself in the top flight after losing the battle for a Bulls No 9 jersey with Bernard van der Linde.
His attacking instincts are thoroughly established, evidenced by him being one of the leading try-scorers in this year’s tournament, while his kicking game – already eye-catchingly strong at junior level – is constantly improving.
Interestingly, he’s emerged as a very useful breakdown hound and won no less than seven ruck turnovers – impressive for a No 9.
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