Rewind: Springbok Danie Rossouw was dynamite & among the world’s best

Published on 27th January 2025 | 2 Responses

Danie Rossouw, he of Springboks, Bulls and Toulon fame is among the most decorated players in rugby’s history. He has won every title and not enough was ever written about these title-winning exploits, writes Mark Keohane.

As part of this platform’s ‘REWIND’ series, where we revisit the playing glory days of iconic Boks, Rossouw is the next cab off the rank after I introduced the series with a celebration of the provincial and Springbok playing career of two-time World Cup-winning coach Rassie Erasmus.

Rossouw’s stats tell the power of his story but beyond the stats I asked former Bulls and Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer, who was Rossouw’s coach for much of his career, and Springboks, Bulls and Toulon Enforcer and one of the game’s most imposing Bakkies Botha, a teammate and friend since their school days, to describe what made Rossouw’s playing career so special.

For the record, Rossouw won 3 Currie Cup titles, 3 Super Rugby titles, a Japanese league title and cup title, a Heineken Cup (now the Investec Champions Cup), a Top 14 French Title, a Tri-Nations title, a World Cup and a series victory over the British and Irish Lions. He played 313 professional matches as a No 4 lock, No 5 lock, No 6 flank, No 7 flank and a No 8. REMARKABLE.

Heyneke Meyer (on Rossouw):

Danie Roussouw was a rugby player who epitomized versatility, athleticism and loyalty. His ability to play multiple positions, from lock to back row, made him an invaluable asset to any team. He was not only physically imposing but also incredibly skilled, offering a rare blend of size and finesse on the field. His athleticism was outstanding for a man of his stature, and his toughness was unmatched.

As an impact player, Danie was exceptional. When he came off the bench or started, his presence alone could shift the momentum of a game. His contributions were often understated, yet his influence was undeniable. Despite being surrounded by legends like Victor Matfield and Bakkies Botha during his time with the Bulls and Springboks, Danie always held his own. He was the unsung hero, often playing in their shadows, but his performances spoke volumes.

Danie’s career took him across the globe, where he won numerous trophies with different teams. His skill set, determination, and dedication to his teammates earned him respect wherever he went. But perhaps what set him apart the most was his unwavering loyalty. While many clubs offered him lucrative contracts, he remained loyal to his team, accepting far less financial reward to stay and support his brothers on the field.

What made Danie even more remarkable was his incredible personality and his ability to be a true team player. His humility and approachability made him a favorite among his teammates, and he always put the team first. Whether it was stepping into any role or encouraging others, Danie was the kind of player who made everyone around him better. His infectious attitude and love for the game created a positive atmosphere both on and off the field.

Stories about SA’s heroes must never stop

As a coach, I can say without hesitation that Danie was one of the best players I ever had the privilege of working with. His character, work ethic, and commitment to the team were second to none. His value went far beyond statistics, and it’s impossible to overstate his contribution to every team he played for. He truly was a legend, and his legacy in rugby will be remembered as one of a true team player and a remarkable athlete.

He was good enough to play 100 test matches. He played No 8 in the World Cup in 2007 and made the crucial cross cover try-saving tackle on England wing Mark Cueto in the final. He was a very physical enforcer like Bakkies but the skillset of a Victor at lock or Pierre (Spies) when playing 8. He was just such a great all round player. Huge ballcarrier but also very good in line outs and kick offs. He could even kick for posts and he played flyhalf at some stage of his schools career. For me he is a modern Frik de Preez; just a much bigger and mobile version.

He always had a great feeling for the game. I really rated him very highly. I first saw him as this skinny type No 8 playing for Tuks (Pretoria University). I moved him to lock and he was brilliant for the Bulls and Springboks. He could play and cover from 4 to 8 and you don’t find that often at the highest level of the game. He influenced many results for us in an impact role but was always fit enough to play 80 minutes whenever necessary. Off the field, he is as great a guy as he was a player and he is a character with a lot of stories. He is one of the best and favourite players I ever coached.

Bakkies Botha (on Rossouw): Me and Danie are coming from primary school and he is an amazing guy. He is a massive team guy and will never let the team down. A player that never got the acknowledgment for the impact he made everytime he plays in different positions. And he put the bar up and one of the best when it comes to run an unders line in the 22 on attack. He was amazing doing that and and scoring amazing tries. He is a good friend of mine and close to my hart.