Runners and rugby players are altogether different species. Put a representative of each sport in a room together and, after comparing short shorts and penchants for a baselayer, conversation would stall. There is, however, a greater, underlying connection that makes the runner and the rugby player far more similar than initially presumed. Rugby players, you see, have to be pretty good at running, and these chaps are some of the quickest.
Name: Lwazi Mvovo
Age: 29
Team: South Africa
100m time: 10.32
But is he any good? A prolific tryscorer for his club, the Natal Sharks, and the second quickest player in world rugby. Yeah, he’s alright.
Name: Bryan Habana
Age: 32
Team: South Africa
100m time: 10.4
But is he any good? While he’s past his best, the fourth all-time top try scorer is still capable of turning any game on its head.
Name: Takudzwa Ngwenya
Age: 30
Team: United States
100m time: 10.5
But is he any good? When he catches the ball, yes, very! Ngwenya possesses electrifying pace and a nifty sidestep to boot. In open space, he’s deadly.
Name: Jonny May
Age: 25
Team: England
100m time: 10.71
But is he any good? The last few test matches have been a coming of age for May, who scored two powerful tries against Ireland and seems to have finally learned to utilise his lightning pace by running forwards rather than sideways.
Name: Israel Folau
Age: 26
Team: Australia
100m time: 10.9
But is he any good? When the hopes of a nation rest on your shoulders, you can probably play a bit. With a vertical jump of 31 inches, irrepressible strength and the feet of a ballet dancer, Folau is one of world rugby’s most mesmerising talents.
Name: Anthony Watson
Age: 21
Team: England
100m time: 11.2
But is he any good? Five tries in seven international appearances this year speak for themselves. Watson is one of England’s brightest attacking talents.
