Pieter-Steph du Toit

Can Anyone Top Pieter-Steph du Toit? Spoiler: Probably Not!

Find out why former Springbok coaches think Pieter-Steph du Toit is the ultimate flanker with no weaknesses!

In the tone of fun banter that only South Africans can fully appreciate, the debate about who stands at the pinnacle of South African rugby continues. According to former Springbok coaches Jacques Nienaber and Heyneke Meyer, there’s a name that reigns supreme in the world of blindside flankers: Pieter-Steph du Toit. This giant of a player is often labeled ‘phenomenal,’ not only for his playing ability but also for his infamous status in the locker room for being the only player known to consume an entire braai on game day!

Both coaches lauded du Toit for his unmatched skill set, reliability, and sheer physical prowess on the field. Meyer nostalgically recalls the days when he had to figure out how to handle du Toit in practice. It goes without saying that du Toit could tackle a brick wall and then make a perfect cup of Rooibos tea to chill things down—talk about multi-tasking! The immense capability of this player has not only secured him his spot in the team but has also raised eyebrows among opponents, prompting them to query whether they should prepare for a rugby match or a wrestling match!

Du Toit’s attributes on the flanking position indeed make him an irreplaceable player. His game-reading ability is as elusive as the last slice of biltong at a party, making him impossible to mark or predict. With a talent to seamlessly transition from defense to offense, he often leaves the opposition in his wake while they try to figure out if they are watching rugby or a spectacular magic show! As South Africa continues to ride high on the rugby-wave, du Toit remains a cornerstone for upcoming international matches.

As if du Toit’s skill wasn't enough, his work ethic is akin to trying to teach a lion to share its steak—nearly impossible! His colleagues admire not only his prowess on the pitch but also his commitment to fitness off it. Fun fact: did you know that du Toit can bench press a small car? Well, maybe not exactly, but it certainly feels that way when he’s on the field. It’s no wonder former coaches believe he is a once-in-a-generation player who truly embodies the essence of South African rugby!