The 2023 Planet Rugby Readers’ Team of the Year has been announced, and it comes as no surprise that the Rugby World Cup-winning Springboks dominate the team. With a staggering 32,200 people participating in the voting, this selection truly reflects the opinions of rugby enthusiasts worldwide.
The team showcases the best players of 2023, with just three countries represented. South Africa, France, and New Zealand stand out as the powerhouses in this star-studded lineup.
Two players managed to receive over 70% of the votes, showcasing their undeniable talent and impact on the field. Meanwhile, five other players claimed a spot with less than half of the votes, indicating the tough competition amongst rugby’s elite.
In the fullback position, Damian Willemse from South Africa emerged victorious with 28% of the votes, narrowly beating out Beauden Barrett, Hugo Keenan, and Thomas Ramos. France’s Damian Penaud secured the 14 jersey with 38.8% of the votes, edging out Will Jordan, an impressive accomplishment.
At the center positions, Springbok Jesse Kriel claimed the most votes for the 13 jersey with 38%, followed closely by Garry Ringrose, Gael Fickou, and Waisea Nayacalevu. Bundee Aki from Ireland earned 57.1% of the votes for the 12 jersey, beating out tough competition from Damian de Allende, Jordie Barrett, and Sinoe Tuipulotu.
The wingers proved to be fierce competitors, with Cheslin Kolbe from South Africa securing the 11 jersey with 58.1% of the votes, beating out Louis Bielle-Biarrey, James Lowe, and Mark Telea.
South African dominance continued in the halfback positions, where Handre Pollard earned 53.9% of the votes for the 10 jersey. Richie Mo’unga, Johnny Sexton, and Owen Farrell also received notable support from fans. Antoine Dupont from France dominated the 9 jersey poll with an impressive 65.9% of the votes, followed by Faf de Klerk, Aaron Smith, and Jamison Gibson-Park.
In the forwards, Ardie Savea from New Zealand claimed the 8 jersey with a resounding 70.5% of the votes, outshining Gregory Alldritt. Siya Kolisi from South Africa secured the 7 jersey with 54.6% of the votes, followed by Josh van der Flier, Levani Botia, and Jac Morgan.
Pieter-Steph du Toit from South Africa dominated the 6 jersey poll with an overwhelming 85.4% of the votes, leaving Charles Ollivon, Shannon Frizell, and Marcos Kremer trailing behind.
The locks also saw a heated competition, with Franco Mostert from South Africa narrowly claiming the 5 jersey with 37.9% of the votes. Scott Barrett, Thibaud Flament, and James Ryan put up a tough fight in this category.
In the front row, South African players proved their prowess once again. Eben Etzebeth earned an impressive 81.9% of the votes for the 4 jersey, followed by Tadhg Beirne, Brodie Retallick, and Jean Kleyn. Frans Malherbe secured the 3 jersey with 66.6% of the votes, leaving fans impressed with Uini Atonio and Ben Tameifuna’s performances. Bongi Mbonambi claimed the 2 jersey with 36.1% of the votes, narrowly beating out Dan Sheehan, Peato Mauvaka, and Julian Montoya. Completing the front row, Ox Nche from South Africa earned 53.1% of the votes for the 1 jersey, followed by Steven Kitshoff, Andre Porter, and Ethan de Groot.
The Planet Rugby Readers’ Team of the Year not only showcases the best players of 2023 but also highlights the impressive talent and dominance of the Rugby World Cup-winning Springboks. These players have cemented their places in the hearts of rugby fans worldwide.
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