All Blacks v Springboks combined XV
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All Blacks v Springboks combined XV
Ahead of this weekend's semi final between the pair, we have selected the ultimate XV from the 2 current squads. A tough pick but let us know what you think!
2. Dane Coles - Has wrestled with Keven Mealamu for the hooker spot and has nailed down a starting place ahead of the 100+ cap All Black. Solid at the set piece and speed around the pitch makes him stand out above the rest.
3. Owen Franks - Franks is one of the most consistent tightheads in the Southern Hempishere and has been a vital member of the All Blacks side.
4. Eben Ezebeth - Just edges out fellow countryman Lood de Jaeger but Ezebeth is one of the best out there. Is a perfect fit in the Springboks side, great at the set piece and physicality is second to none. Still only 23 years of age which is quite a scary thought.
5. Brodie Retallick - The 2014 World player of the year is the best second row in the business no questions asked. Is one of the first names on the team sheet for the All Blacks and one of the more established members of the squad.
6. Schalk Burger - Like a fine wine, as Burger enter the final stages of his career he just gets better and better. Proved this RWC that he can still cut it, awesome around the pitch and the breakdown.
7. Richie McCaw - The most capped test player in the world. Leader and rugby legend. Need we say more?
8. Kieran Reid - Proved in the last few years why he is one of the best 8s out there, strong carrier, fantastic footballer and has got a fantastic rugby brain. Such a key member of this current All Blacks team and has proved in the last few years that he will be able to take over the captaincy reigns when Richie McCaw retires.
9. Aaron Smith - The Highlanders man is one of the most exciting players in World Rugby, consistently good with a fantastic range on his pass, dazzling feet and outrageous pace he is undoubtedly the best 9 in the Southern Hemisphere right now.
10. Dan Carter - A household name in rugby who is just too good to leave out. Coming towards the end of his career but still one of the most reliable players for the All Blacks. In his last year as an All Black, his game management and his ability hasn't changed since cap 1.
11. Julian Savea - 'The Bus' has proven over the last few weeks why people consider him to better than Jonah Lomu. 38 tries in 39 games is out of this world and he's showing no signs of stopping. Savea's pace and power is quite frightening and is almost certain to go down as one of the best wingers to wear the All Blacks jersey.
12. Ma'a Nonu - Monster of a man, all the skills for a centre. An All Black legend who made his 101th cap against France last week, powerful centre who's all round rugby game is impressive.
13. Jesse Kriel - New on the scene but has already taken the World by storm. Hasn't shown his full potential so far in this World Cup but has already shown how he can hurt this NZ side when they met earlier on in the year.
14. Bryan Habana - On course to become the World Cup leading try scorer and is one of the best finishers in the game.
15. Ben Smith - Versatile and extremely talented. Underrated by some but such a talented footballer and key member of the NZ backline.
