Six Nations: Saffas on show on your telly this weekend

This year’s Six Nations tournament kicks off on Friday night, and a host of South Africans will feature for their adopted nations across the six scheduled Test matches.

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South Africa is not just a breeding ground for star players on the local front, it is also a known to be a production line for foreign nations, who cash in on World Rugby’s residency laws to stock their ranks with South African-born players.

The best example of South Africa’s exporting prowess is the long list of local born players — past and present — that have turned out in the Six Nations for the likes of England, Ireland, Scotland, France and Italy, who are all Tier One Test rugby power houses in own right.

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SAFFAS INFILTRATE SIX NATIONS

This year is no different, with no less than five South Africans selected to do Six Nations duty for their adopted nations.

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Paul Willemse has returned to the fold for France, following his return to fitness after a wretched injury spell. Willemse missed out on selection for France’s opening round encounter against Ireland, but is sure to play a pivotal role in the French second row as the tournament progresses.

Elsewhere, Scotland have again called on backs Duhan van der Merwe and Kyle Steyn and forwards WP Nel and Pierre Schoeman. The South African-born quartet all earned selection for round one and will have to fire on all cylinders if they are to be on the right end of the result against hosts Wales at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

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