The better birthday present on Saturday would’ve been a place in the final, but Curwin Bosch says it’s a “special achievement” to be nominated for the World Under-20 Player of the Tournament.
Junior Springbok fullback Bosch was named on Thursday as one of five nominees for the award that’s ultimately to decide the best Under-20 player in the world. And the youngster from Port Elizabeth fully deserves it.
He has been in excellent form despite the Junior Boks crashing out of the tournament in Monday’s 39-17 semi-final defeat to hosts England in Manchester, and is the leading points-scorer in the competition with 59 (two tries, 14 conversions and seven penalties) in four matches.
But his general play is what has set him apart from the others as he has a calculated tactical boot, is able to break the line with his lightning speed, and can create play for his teammates with his reading of the game and passing ability as he seamlessly interchanged positions with flyhalf Manie Libbok in all four matches.
Bosch, who will turn 19 on Saturday, will have a last chance to add to his tally and push for the award when the Junior Boks take on Argentina in the third-place playoff on the same day at 3.30pm, with England and Ireland in the final at 8pm.
“It is an honour to be nominated among such fantastic players for the Player of the Tournament,” Bosch said on Thursday. “It is a special achievement. But my only focus at this point is for our team to secure the bronze medal on Saturday. Argentina are tough opponents and they will give everything, but we plan to do the same.”
The last two South African recipients of the award were Handré Pollard (2014) and Jan Serfontein (2012). The winner will be announced after England-Ireland final.
@IndyCapeSport – Independent Media