Springboks lock Pieter‑Steph du Toit praised as Sam Cane’s toughest opponent

Former All Blacks captain Sam Cane said the Springboks forward Pieter‑Steph du Toit was the most impressive player he faced in his 16 Test matches against South Africa. Cane described du Toit as a “rare breed” who “keeps getting up in your face, never takes a backward step” and called him “just incredible” for his relentless work rate. Former All Blacks fly‑half Stephen Donald likened du Toit to lock Brodie Retallick, noting his versatility in playing both lock and flanker.

Cane’s comments were made during an interview on The Aftermatch with Kirst & Beav, highlighting du Toit’s impact across two generations of Springbok talent.