South Africa's contrasting home British and Irish Lions series have produced players who have made a mark in SA Rugby in the professional era. The 1997 Series that South Africa unexpectedly lost 2-1 gave South African rugby Johan "Rassie" Erasmus and Percy Montgomery, players who would shape SA Rugby differently. The 2-1 triumph in 2009 changed the careers of Tendai "Beast" Mtawarira, Morne Steyn and Heinrich Brussow. My lifespan has allowed me to witness the two British and Irish Lions series tours that have taken place in South Africa. Tendai "Beast" Mtawarira (First Test, Kings Park, 2009)Mtawarira was already a starting Test prop by the time Phil Vickery rolled around.

Source: News 24 May 27, 2021 06:33 UTC