Embrose Papier, once heralded as South Africa's next great scrumhalf, has a golden opportunity to reignite his Springbok aspirations in the United Rugby Championship (URC) final against Leinster. As Mark Keohane writes for TimesLIVE, Saturday's crucial match in Dublin presents Papier with the perfect platform to force his way back into Rassie Erasmus's consideration, especially after a seven-year absence from Test rugby.
Papier is set to start for the Bulls at Croke Park, facing a formidable Leinster side brimming with Irish internationals and strengthened by the presence of RG Snyman and Jordie Barrett. Despite Leinster being the favourites, Keohane highlights the Bulls' recent success, having won three of the last five encounters, with Papier playing a pivotal role in their semi-final victory over the Sharks.
“Papier broke the game open early on in setting up winger Sebastian de Klerk and was electric for much of the match,” Keohane observes. “A big day in Dublin could see him added to the Bok mix and leapfrog those selected.”
Papier's form this season has been nothing short of exceptional. He's started 16 out of 18 URC matches, showcasing his dynamism with 18 defenders beaten, seven clean breaks, seven offloads, and a remarkable 138 kicks covering over 3600 metres, all while maintaining discipline by conceding only four penalties.
Key Stats Highlight Papier's Impact
- URC Starts: 16
- Defenders Beaten: 18
- Clean Breaks: 7
- Offloads: 7
- Kicks: 138 (over 3600 metres)
- Penalties Conceded: 4
Keohane argues that a standout performance in the final could bring Papier's career full circle. The 28-year-old was initially selected by Erasmus in 2018 and remains deeply committed to the Bulls, a province he embraced when he moved from Darling to Pretoria at the age of 15.
This URC final isn't just another game for Papier; it's a chance to prove his worth and remind everyone why he was once tipped for greatness. South African rugby fans will be watching closely to see if he can seize this opportunity and reclaim his place among the Springboks.