Vodacom Bulls scrumhalf Embrose Papier’s outstanding season has been recognised with one of South African rugby’s biggest individual honours.
The 29-year-old was named SA URC Player of the Season after a campaign that has reignited his Springbok ambitions and helped drive the Bulls into the semi-finals.
Papier was selected by a voting panel comprising the Springbok coaching staff, South Africa’s four club coaches and selected broadcast commentators.
The award caps a remarkable resurgence for the Bulls scrumhalf, who has been one of the competition’s standout performers this season.
Using his trademark speed around the fringes, Papier scored nine tries during the regular season and added two more in the Bulls’ quarter-final victory over Munster. He also contributed five assists, 15 clean breaks and beat 25 defenders.
His form earned him a place at the recent Springbok alignment camp and has strengthened his case for a return to the national squad ahead of the international season.
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The former Springbok, who made his Test debut against Wales as a 21-year-old in 2018, credited hard work and experience for his improvement.
“I just kept working,” said Papier. “I knew I could still do it. It was just little things I had to work on.
“I have become a lot calmer over the years and started making better decisions on the field. In the past, I used to just pass a lot and see what happens. But now I analyse teams.”
Papier joins an impressive list of recent winners that includes Evan Roos, Manie Libbok, Sanele Nohamba and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
The Bulls scrumhalf’s attention now turns back to the playoffs, where he will be tasked with guiding his side past the Glasgow Warriors and one step closer to URC glory.
Photo: @BlueBullsRugby/X
