Another product of the respected North West University (Pukke) Rugby Institute, Stian van Blerk has a tight forward pedigree that is second to none. Towering over most players on the field, he’s been able to add mobility, balance and undoubted physical dominance to his impressive skillset. Having represented the Leopards at every junior provincial level, van Blerk made his senior professional debut in the 2015 Vodacom Cup against the Blue Bulls, where he went toe to toe with Springbok RG Snyman.

The comparisons between the two men are appropriate, as Stian made a name for himself as both a dominant figure at the lineout, as well as a destructive ball-carrier who constantly looks for work. These characteristics drew the attention of Blagnac in Fédérale 1, where he has not only impressed in the second row, but also featured as a devastating loose forward. With well over sixty Fédérale 1 caps to his name and still just 26 years of age, Stian is entering the prime of his career as a lock; both in terms of set-piece leadership and the mature decision making that is so vital in the modern game.