2007 Rugby World Cup team of the tournament, where are they now?

2007 Rugby World Cup team of the tournament, where are they now?

7. Juan Smith (South Africa)

Why was he on the team?

South Africa’s tough-tackling openside flanker Juan Smith was a key part of the World Cup-winning team to lift the Webb Ellis trophy in 2007. Throughout the tournament, he proved a nightmare for any opponent to play against and was both aggressive and technically brilliant.

What is he doing now?

After playing a bit part in the Boks’ 2011 World Cup campaign, Smith had an operation on his Achilles’ tendon later that year. However, he was forced to announce his retirement from the game subsequently at the beginning of 2013 after the operation failed to resolve the problem. But he made a shock return to playing later in the year with French side Toulon, who handed him a one-year deal after he passed their medical checks. After a successful campaign, Smith was recalled to the Springboks team for the Rugby Championship.

Did you know: His first taste of Rugby World Cup action came later in 2003 when he played in four games at a tournament where South Africa lost in the quarter-finals to New Zealand.

8. Finau Maka (Tonga)

Why was he on the team?

The number eight Finau Maka was an imposing presence and star performer in the Tonga pack that made life distinctly uncomfortable for their pool stage opponents South Africa and England. Maka highlighted a change in style for the Tongan side at the World Cup, with his excellent skills and discipline allowing them to compete at the breakdown with the best in the world. This change was evident when the Tongans were narrowly defeated 30-25 by eventual World Champions South Africa in the next group game.

What is he doing now?

He continued playing for Toulouse until 2010 before hanging up his boots. He then took up boxing but was beaten by Technical knockout in his most recent fight against Brown Butterbean.

Did you know: He scored a try and put in a man of the match on his international debut.

9. Fourie du Preez (South Africa)

Why was he on the team?

The dynamic Springbok scrum-half ripped England to shreds in the 36-0 pool win and set a high standard for himself, which he would continue throughout the tournament.

What is he doing now?

He is seen as a certainty for a starting place at the upcoming World Cup if he can regain full fitness. However, he tore his medial collateral ligaments in his knee at the end of June, putting his fitness and availability in doubt.

Did you know: In 2009, Du Preez was voted South Africa Rugby Player of the year by the South African Rugby Football Union for a second time.
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