Vodacom Bulls lock Juandré Kruger made his debut for the Springboks against England on Saturday and showed that he will not disappoint on the international stage. The 27 year old lock run the cutter in the line-outs, impressed with his line-out calling and contributed in other areas of play as well.

He tackled hard, worked hard off the ball and was involved in the lead-up to Jean de Villiers’ try with some good distribution and fast hands.

Kruger’s predecessor in the Springbok No 5 jersey, Victor Matfield, was impressed with Kruger’s debut.

“He certainly showed no nerves for the big occasion and did an excellent job in his first test match match. I was very impressed by his performance, South Africa’s most capped lock ever commented.

Bio:

Physical: 1.98 en 110kg

DOB: 06/09/1985, Cape Town

Provincial matches: 38 (6 WP, 32 Blue Bulls)

Super Rugby matches: 13 (2012 v Sharks)

Other: Heineken Cup and English Premiership for Northampton Saints (2009, 2010).

Tests: 1 (vs England, Durban, 2012)

Favourite movie: Gladiator

Music: Alternative

Food: Fillet steak

Primary School: Eversdal

High School: Paul Roos Gymnasium