Willie's star continues to rise

Springbok Willie le Roux played a leading role as Griquas snatched a 21-19 win over Pumas in the first leg of a Currie Cup promotion-relegation play-off.

Back from Rugby Championship Test duties, the right wing made the passes that sent replacement loose forward Carel Greeff and centre Jean Stemmet over for tries.

This season has proved to be the break-out season for the outside back as he helped the Cheetahs reach the play-offs in Super Rugby for the first time with six tries in 17 matches and numerous assists.

His form resulted in a call-up for the Springboks earlier this year, where he added a new attacking dimension to the backline, scoring three tries in nine Tests and creating many opportunities around him.

Willie le Roux has played on the right wing for the Springboks this season filling the void left by JP Pietersen, who was unavailable for the Rugby Championship due to club commitments with his new club the Panasonic Wild Knights in Japan.

JP Pietersen will become again available for Springbok selection for the tour of the Northern Hemisphere, leaving Heyneke Meyer to ponder a healthy selection quandary with a wealth of quality outside backs.

The Springboks face Wales on November 9, followed by games against Scotland (November 17) and France (November 23).