Shining Simelane
the abilities, talents and skills – this we know – it was just a matter of putting those qualities together more consistently, and as witnessed, that is exactly what he did in 2020/21.
The former SA Schools player and Baby Bok has that much talked about X-factor: He has the pace to outstrip any defence, an eye for the gap, a step that will bewilder any opponent, and more often than not, a deft offload in the tackle that can open up the field of play, and like all good centres, he is unafraid of taking on the gain line.
His form was such last season, that many pundits and supporters alike spoke of him in glowing terms and as a future Springbok for certain. Defensively, he arguably needs a bit more work, while his decision-making can improve. He is still a laaitie, though, so there is every opportunity for him to do so.
This is the year then that "Wandi" must build on the momentum and promise he exhibited during the previous campaign, and solidify his ambitions to be selected by director of rugby Rassie Erasmus and Bok coach Jacques Nienaber.
He might not be a shoe-in for the British and Irish Lions – that honour will probably still be in the hands of Damian de Allende and Lukanyo
Am – but he certainly has a chance of playing in the Green and Gold in the Rugby Championship and End-ofyear Tour. Along with loose forward Vincent Tshituka, and props Sti Sithole and Carlu Sadie, he is my player to watch as SA rugby prepares for the BI Lions later this year.