Top five moments of 2023
OPINION: The world of rugby witnessed some historic rugby events in 2023.
With the year drawing to a close, we take a look at some of the most memorable events that occurred this year.
1. Springboks one-point play-off wins
South Africa became the first team to claim the World Cup trophy for the fourth time. The back-to-back title was an incredible achievement, especially in the manner they secured the trophy.
The Springboks showed incredible character as they won all three of their knockout matches - against France, England and New Zealand - by a single point.
While it gave the whole of South Africa a couple of heart attacks, the never-say-die attitude portrayed how resilient Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber's men are.
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2. Fiji shock Australia
The Flying Fijians are everybody's favourite team and during the World Cup, they solidified that status. Their World Cup campaign delivered some memorable moments, with the win over Australia at the top of the list.
They pulled off a famous victory by beating Australia 22-15 for the first time in 69 years at the World Cup in Saint Etienne in September.
Fiji completely overpowered Australia with their superior power.
The result was so much sweeter given they managed their first-ever victory over England in the warm-ups leading up to the World Cup.
3. La Rochelle go back-to-back
In a repeat of last season's Champions Cup Final, La Rochelle managed to get the better of Leinster... again.
From 0-17 down, La Rochelle produced a stunning comeback to edge out Leinster 27-26 Final in Dublin in May.
The win saw La Rochelle crowned back-to-back Champions Cup winners, while for Leinster, the wait for European glory continues.
4. Munster win the URC title in Cape Town
It was a sad day in Cape Town when Munster beat the Stormers for the United Rugby Championship title in May.
Munster stunned the Stormers with a 19-14 win in front of more than 56,000 fans at the Cape Town Stadium.
The result was agony for the Stormers faithful, but for Munster, it was jubilation as they waited since 2011 for the accolade.
5. George Ford's kicking masterclass
Probably one of the best performances of the World Cup, George Ford kicked 27 points during England's 27-10 win over Argentina in the World Cup opener.
The performance was much needed following England's horrendous run leading up to the World Cup.
England played with 14-man for 77 minutes as the flyhalf delivered a masterclass, kicking six penalties and three drop goals.