Thursday 28 January 2010

Rugby: Ruben Kruger

How sad to hear of the death, aged 39, of former South Africa flanker Ruben Kruger, who was part of the World Cup winning side in 1995. Kruger was the epitome of the tough South African flanker, strong in the tackle and the carry, not playing a flashy game. He could go unnoticed at times, but he was an important part of that world champion side, memorably scoring the only try of a waterlogged semi-final against France in a drenched Durban.


Highlights of the 1995 semi-final begin five minutes into this clip

With Invictus in cinemas this week, recounting the tale of South Africa's historic victory in that tournament, it is easy to forget just how close that game was, ending 19-15. Kruger's try was the difference, and without it, history could have been very different.

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