Jeremy Ward Hails Springboks’ Centre Pair De Allende and Kriel as ‘As Good as They Come’

Former Junior Springbok centre Jeremy Ward has praised Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel, describing the experienced midfield combination as one of the finest centre pairings South Africa has produced.

Ward’s comments come ahead of the Springboks’ highly anticipated Nations Championship encounter against France in Paris, where the partnership between De Allende and Kriel is expected to play an important role in South Africa’s efforts to overcome the hosts.

The two centres have established themselves as key figures in the Springboks’ backline through their consistency, physicality and understanding of each other’s game.

De Allende is widely recognised for his powerful ball-carrying ability, strength in contact and capacity to create opportunities for teammates by challenging opposition defensive lines.

Kriel, meanwhile, has earned recognition for his defensive reliability, pace, attacking awareness and ability to identify spaces in opposition defences.

Together, the pair have developed an effective midfield partnership that has contributed significantly to South Africa’s success in international rugby.

Ward, who previously represented South Africa at under-20 level, believes the combination possesses qualities that place it among the best ever seen in the country’s rugby history.

His assessment highlights the importance of having a settled and experienced centre pairing, particularly when facing a physically demanding opponent such as France.

The French midfield is also expected to provide a stern examination for the Springboks, making the battle between the two teams’ centres one of the key areas to watch.

South Africa will need De Allende and Kriel to combine their physical strength, defensive organisation and attacking intelligence to help create opportunities and prevent France from gaining momentum.

The upcoming encounter is expected to be a significant test for both teams, with France enjoying home advantage and the Springboks looking to maintain their strong reputation in international rugby.

Ward’s praise also reflects the respect the De Allende-Kriel partnership has earned among players and observers who have followed South Africa’s recent achievements.

While comparisons across different generations of Springbok centres will always invite debate, the duo’s consistency and contribution to the national team’s success have strengthened their place among the country’s most respected midfield combinations.

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