Some good performances this week made some choices difficult, but again there is no room for any Australians. Many of these names could reappear in the team of the tournament!
1 – Tendai Mtawarira (South Africa) The Beast was at his swashbuckling best against the Wallabies, sidestepping, dummying, and of course performing his core roles outstandingly well. One of the more consistent performers over the course of the championship.
2 – Adriaan Strauss (South Africa) You could probably pick this one in advance each week, just give it to whoever is starting for the Springboks. Nobody else in the world is even close at this point.
3 – Juan Figallo (Argentina) Quietly going about establishing himself as arguably the premier tighthead prop on the planet. Gave Tony Woodock all he could handle in the scrum, and put himself about in the loose.
4 – Eben Etzebeth (South Africa) Another monstrous performance. There must be a few French clubs wondering how much it would cost to bring him north.
5 – Patricio Albacete (Argentina) What a difference he makes. A huge physical presence in the trenches and very noticeably in the scrum.
6 – Juan Fernandez Lobbe (Argentina) Not necessarily a vintage performance, but kept his team in the game until they tired at the end.
7 – Sam Cane (New Zealand) No obvious winner here so Cane gets the nod for his work ethic in La Plata. Thus far he has rewarded the selectors’ faith despite questions of whether he was good enough yet.
8 – Duane Vermeulen (South Africa) Just puts his head down and plows forward. Destructive tackler and can dent the thickest of defensive walls.
9 – Fourie du Preez (South Africa) Absolutely superb. Two years in the international wilderness haven’t slowed him a bit. In fact, he might be getting better.
10 – Morne Steyn (South Africa) Clearly enjoyed having his old mate back in his 50th test. Controlled the game and kicked the points.
11 – Julian Savea (New Zealand) Well taken try killed off Argentina’s momentum as he proved dangerous each time he got the ball. Still growing as a player.
12 – Jean de Villiers (South Africa) Ma’a Nonu rebounded for the All Blacks but the Springbok captain was outstanding once again. Sublime pass created Zane Kirchner’s try.
13 – Conrad Smith (New Zealand) Just works and works and works. One more game and he gets a well-earned vacation.
14 – Ben Smith (New Zealand) Two more tries for the form winger in the world at the moment, and a hint of the centre position he may well occupy in November.
15 – Zane Kirchner (South Africa) Where has this attacking ability for the past few seasons? Proving his doubters wrong this championship.
Ray's Rugby 