The most searched for Springbok? It's not Siya Kolisi

Ever wondered who the most Googled Springbok is? Surprisingly, it’s not skipper Siya Kolisi – although he runs a close second.

A recent popularity survey was compiled by analysing global search volumes in 2021, ultimately allowing them to rank the most loved players this year.

The survey determined that veteran lock Eben Etzebeth – with 9,588 average monthly searches – is the most popular South African player.

Springbok captain Siyamthanda Kolisi speaks about the vexed issue of transformation

Springbok captain Siyamthanda Kolisi speaks about the vexed issue of transformation

Etzebeth is widely regarded as one of the best players on the planet and has also gained the reputation of being one of the most intimidating men in the sport.

Coming in second is Kolisi with 7,968 average monthly searches.

In third with, 3,531 average monthly searches, is flyhalf Handre Pollard – the highest-paid rugby player on the planet.

In fourth is No.8 Duane Vermeulen with 2,649 average monthly searches and completing the top five is lock Lodewyk De Jager with 2,236 average monthly searches – 76 percent less than Etzebeth in first.

Of course, Kolisi is more concerned with leading the World Champion Springboks to three wins out of three in this Autumn international window. South Africa defeated Scotland 30-15 in the second match on tour at Murrayfield on Saturday and have now returned to No.1 in World Rugby rankings as a result, leap frogging New Zealand who fell to Ireland in Dublin.

Kolisi said that the Springboks ability to convert opportunities into points was vital against Scotland, and he praised his teammates for doing so.

“We didn’t change anything,” said Kolisi. “The difference today was the way we used our opportunities, which we didn’t do as effectively against Australia and New Zealand.

“We scored two tries and there were times when we applied so much pressure they kicked the ball, and we won it back.

“That’s what Jacques has been driving – to see the opportunities and use them, and we did that today.”

The Springboks have arrived in London ahead of their final tour match against England.