Combined Springboks and Ireland all-time XV

Here is a combined all-time XV between the two nations.

A calm, reliable presence at fullback, Montgomery ended his Springbok career in 2008 holding national records for both caps and points. South Africa’s first player to reach 100 Tests, he received a ceremonial gold cap after facing the All Blacks in Cape Town. His 893 Test points kept him far ahead of every other Springbok scorer.

Explosive pace and an eye for the try line helped turn Habana into one of rugby’s most feared wingers. His journey through South African provincial rugby and then to Toulon in France displayed his adaptability and consistency.

For the Springboks, he delivered iconic moments, especially during the 2007 World Cup where he equalled Jonah Lomu’s eight-try tournament record. He later matched Lomu’s career tally of 15 World Cup tries and finished his career with 67 Test tries, placing him second on the all-time global list.

A combination of elegance, intelligence and competitive fire helped O’Driscoll redefine the outside-centre role. While representing Leinster and Ireland, he became a long-serving captain and a consistent matchwinner. His 141 Test appearances rank among the most in rugby history, and his 47 international tries remain unmatched by any Irish player.

O’Driscoll shone brightest in the Six Nations, winning Player of the Tournament three times and scoring a championship-record 26 tries. His influence extended to Europe as well, where he became Ireland’s leading Heineken Cup try-scorer.

Reliability and sharp decision-making made Fourie a key figure in South Africa’s midfield. Although best known as an outside centre, he adapted comfortably when required, offering balance in defence and attack. His performances at the 2007 World Cup were crucial, including full-match efforts in the knockout stages and the final victory over England.

Strong tackling, intelligent running lines and dependable distribution defined his style. Fourie often worked quietly but effectively, providing structure in big Test matches and contributing significantly to South Africa’s success during a period rich in world-class talent across the backline.

A dazzling step, remarkable balance and fearless defence turned Kolbe into one of rugby’s most thrilling modern wingers. Despite his smaller frame, he consistently outperforms larger opponents through timing, precision and explosive acceleration.

His contributions proved vital in South Africa’s World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023, where key moments showcased his game-breaking talent. Recognition followed globally, including a 2019 World Rugby Player of the Year nomination.

Tactical mastery and fierce competitiveness shaped Sexton’s long career at fly-half. With Leinster and Racing 92, he refined the control and game management that would define his international success. Over 1,100 points for Ireland established him as the country’s top scorer, while his leadership as captain from 2019 to 2023 strengthened his legacy.

Sexton also featured prominently on two British & Irish Lions tours and claimed the World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2018.

Intensity and physicality set van der Westhuizen apart as a scrum-half who transformed expectations of the position. Spending his entire provincial career with the Blue Bulls, he also earned 89 caps for the Springboks, playing a pivotal role in the iconic 1995 World Cup victory.

His fearless tackle on Jonah Lomu in the final remains one of rugby’s most-replayed moments. Known for his strong running, sharp instincts and uncompromising defence, he influenced countless players who followed.

Endurance and raw power helped du Randt stand out as one of the greatest loosehead props in world rugby. Competing across both the amateur and professional eras, he achieved the rare feat of winning World Cups in 1995 and 2007. His club career centred largely on the Free State Cheetahs, with additional stints for the Bulls and the Cats, where he became known for his scrummaging force, impressive mobility and surprising handling ability.

Du Randt’s final match came in the 2007 World Cup final, where he again played the full 80 minutes.

Leadership became the hallmark of Smit’s career, guiding the Springboks to the 2007 World Cup title and shaping one of South Africa’s most successful eras. Comfortable at both hooker and prop, he brought composure and unity to every team he captained. His 111 Test caps set a national record at the time of his retirement after the 2011 World Cup.

With a calm presence and strong communication skills, Smit earned deep respect from teammates and opponents alike. His induction into the IRB Hall of Fame in 2011 recognised not only his achievements but also his immense influence on South African rugby.

Consistency and technical excellence have made Malherbe one of the most dependable tighthead props of his era. His scrummaging strength became a foundation of the Springboks’ approach, particularly during the 2019 World Cup campaign where South Africa’s forward dominance proved decisive.

Malherbe even marked the tournament with his first Test try, scored against Canada. Quiet and methodical by nature, he provides stability in high-pressure moments and rarely loses physical battles. His performance in the final against England highlighted how vital he is to the Springbok pack.

Mastery of the line-out turned Matfield into one of rugby’s most accomplished locks. His partnership with Bakkies Botha formed the backbone of many Springbok successes, including the 2007 World Cup triumph where Matfield was named Player of the Tournament. Renowned for reading opposition line-outs and disrupting them with precision, he set new standards for athletic locks.

After initially retiring post-2011 World Cup as South Africa’s most-capped player, he made a successful return in 2014.

Relentless commitment and fierce competitiveness defined O’Connell’s presence on the field. As a leader for Munster, Ireland and the British & Irish Lions, he set uncompromising standards and inspired those around him. His career brought two European Cups with Munster and multiple Six Nations titles with Ireland, including the 2009 Grand Slam.

With 108 Ireland caps, he retired as one of the nation’s most decorated forwards. Known particularly for his line-out mastery and physical intensity, O’Connell became a symbol of Irish rugby excellence.

A story of resilience and remarkable leadership defines Kolisi’s rise to the top of world rugby. His appointment in 2018 as the first black captain of the Springboks marked a historic moment, and he went on to guide South Africa to World Cup victories in 2019 and 2023. Known for tireless work at flanker and a powerful presence on and off the pitch, Kolisi has represented the Stormers, Racing 92 and the Sharks.

Relentless defensive work and extraordinary stamina have made du Toit one of rugby’s most respected forwards. His ability to excel at both lock and flanker gives South Africa tremendous versatility, while his tackling output regularly swings matches.

Twice honoured as World Rugby Player of the Year, in 2019 and 2024, he has been central to the Springboks’ back-to-back World Cup triumphs. His display in the 2023 final, where he earned Man of the Match, showcased his unmatched intensity.

A commanding presence at number eight, Vermeulen built his reputation on physicality, intelligent positioning and leadership. Known as “The Bone Collector,” he delivered consistently dominant performances for South African sides, Toulon and Ulster.

His influence peaked during the 2019 World Cup, where his Man-of-the-Match performance in the final played a major role in securing the title. Vermeulen excelled under the high ball, controlled contact situations and led by example in pressure moments.