POLO’S IN MINT CONDITION FOR THE 49ERS

SUPER BOWL, MIAMI, SUNDAY

JIMMY GAROPPOLO learned from the best as Tom Brady’s understudy in New England.

But according to team-mate Joe Staley, his greatest strength is that he does not need to be a superstar for San Francisco to be champions on Sunday.

The 49ers quarterback was little-used in the victory over Green Bay that saw San Francisco qualify for Sunday’s Super Bowl here against Kansas City. The 49ers instead used their running backs to wear down the Packers and Staley insists Garoppolo (right) deserves a lot of credit for being the ultimate team player.

Staley said: “He’s an unbelievable human being. Guys love being around him. He’s very genuine. He’s a salt-of-the-earth guy. But his preparation is what

JOS BUTTLER: 3

Has cut a forlorn figure with the bat as keeping in all three formats has taken its toll. Needs to find some form,or have a rest

CHRIS WOAKES: 6

A solid performance with bat and ball in his only Test of the series. Will continue to play a more significant part at home

STUART BROAD: 8

Gave plenty to the side not just as the top wicket taker but as a generous experienced head willing to advise and cajole

JONNY BAIRSTOW: 2

A tough tour for the former keeper-batsman who failed twice in his only appearance as a replacement for

Pope gets a lot of respect. He knows every single detail of this offence and he plays with incredible passion for the game. He makes you want to be better.

“It’s a complete team effort for us, every game. You have the quarterback who couldn’t care less if he throws for 500 yards or 10 yards – he just wants to win the game, and the entire team is like that.”

OLLIE POPE: 9 Outstanding. He galvanised team in Cape Town, grabbed a ton in Port Elizabeth and rammed home the advantage in Jo’burg

SAM CURRAN: 7

Has offered valuable contributions in every game he has played. Crucial wickets and runs are his stock in trade

MARK WOOD: 9

What a return to Test cricket for this hugely popular cricketer. His pace was fearsome and made a huge difference to the team

RORY BURNS: 7

Injury cruelly robbed him of a more significant role in the series but he performed well in the one game he played