Super Rugby 2013: 5 SA backs to watch out for

The annual Super Rugby tournament is around the corner, and the prestigious event is set to have a big showing when the 2013 season kicks off.

While taking a look at some of the players that will be in the limelight next year, the South African conference has a number of game-changing individuals that you should look out for in 2013.

Lionel Mapoe (Bulls)

The former  Lions winger-turned -centre had a strong season in 2012, and with his move to the Bulls, the 24-year old will be looking to show what he’s on the Super Rugby stage. Last year, Mapoe made it into the Springbok set-up, although he’ll be looking to move from the cusp of greatness and into the spotlight.

Jan Serfontein (Bulls)

Jan Serfontein may not be a name on everyone’s lips, but it will be soon. Serfontein had an impressive stint with the U20 Springboks who won the 2012 Junior World Championship in 2012, and he should be looking to bringing that straight running and powerful line-breaks to his Super Rugby debut.

Paul Jordaan  (Sharks)

Paul Jordaan had a great entrance onto the Super Rugby tournament in 2012. Following his discovery through sevens, Jordaan showed great pace, vision and maturity with the Sharks and linked up with fellow outside backs to produce some scintillating breaks throughout the season.

Elton Jantjies (Stormers)

The former Lions fly-half was surely on everyone’s shopping list after the end of the 2012 season. Allister Coetzee’s faith in the 22-year old has shown that Jantjies has the defensive and attacking abilities to fit into the Cape Town side. The Stormers should provide the platform to highlight Jantjies’ explosive playmaking skills and exciting running in the blue and white jersey.

Demetri Catrakillis (Kings)

Demetri Catrakillis’ climb through the ranks has been blemish-free. The young fly-half had a great Varsity Cup in 2011, and moving into the Western Province squad was a good choice, as the 23-year old had a strong Currie Cup final in 2012, kicking three penalties and slotting two vital drop-goals. Catrakillis stepping into the Kings playmaker role will be an area of interest, along with his partnership with exciting Argentinian halfback Nicolás Vergallo.