Ellis Jenkins’ comeback from three years out with a horror injury was at the forefront of the pre-match narrative in Wales.
The Cardiff player wrecked his knee against the Springboks in November 2018 and his journey to full fitness was longer and more arduous than was ever imagined.
Jenkins showed his remarkable durability with a hugely impressive display on his return to the Test scene – and it didn’t go unnoticed in the Springbok camp.
Iconic World Cup-winning captain Siya Kolisi, Jenkins’ opposite number at the Principality Stadium on Saturday evening, paid Jenkins a generous tribute after the game.
"I thought he was great," the Springbok said.
"I remember when he was injured, we were with the Baa-Baas and I sent him my jersey to him.
"Those things are tough, we are all here playing rugby trying to do our families proud and our countries proud and you never want anyone to get injured.
"For him to come back, to fight back from an injury like that, just shows the kind of character he is.
"I said to him, I’m so proud of him. He played well today. I am looking forward to what he is going to do going forward."
Read more: Ellis Jenkins' horror injury and the day Wales v South Africa ended amid horrified silence
Kolisi wasn't the only one impressed by Jenkins' comeback, with Wales head coach Wayne Pivac admitting he was "very, very pleased" for the back-rower.
"It was a big moment for him," the Kiwi told a post-match press conference.
"He didn’t do a lot of training the week before, certainly no contact.
"To come out against a physical side after a rib injury, where he’s been in terms of the recovery from the original knee injury, I was really pleased with him.
"Big steal out early on near our line. Showed great timing and great skill over the ball. He’s going to get better and better for that performance”"
As for the leadership qualities of Jenkins - who replaced Jonathan Davies as captain - as Wales build towards the 2023 World Cup, Pivac added: "He’s an important player. With Alun [Wyn Jones] injured, you need others to lead in the forwards.
"Justin Tipuric and Ken Owens would normally be there, but with those away, Ellis not only played well, but had a leadership role along with Adam Beard."
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