Bok backs make Top 100 Round Two

SPOTLIGHT: Round Two of Rugbypass’ Top 100 Men’s Rugby Players of 2024 have officially been revealed on Thursday.

With players ranked 100-81 revealed on Wednesday, two more Bok stars made the cut on the list ranked between 80-61.

Despite not featuring in a single Test for the Springboks in 2024, Damian Willemse made the ranking of No.73 with Springbok teammate Jesse Kriel ranked 10 places above him in 63rd spot.

Kriel, who has previously been criticised for being one dimensional and not as flashy as teammate Lukhanyo Am stepped up brilliantly in the Sharks centre’s absence during World Cup 2023 and continued his fine form in 2024 that earned him a spot in World Rugby’s dream team.

Willemse is ranked higher than France’s Thomas Ramos, New Zealand’s Codie Taylor and Scotland’s Darcy Graham despite not having played any Tests in the 2024 season due to injury.

The utility back seemed in fine form for the Stormers against Munster playing at No.10 before sustaining a groin injury against Glasgow Warriors the following week that ruled him out of the Boks November tour.

Australia breakout rookie star Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii also made the cut after just four Test matches at No.68 with New Zealand’s Damian Mckenzie ranked two spots higher at No.66.

Other standout names are Tadhg Furlong (80), Cam Roigard (72) and Garry Ringrose (71).

* You can now view the list, as Rugbypass gradually release more players: Top 100 Men’s Rugby Players 2024.

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