CJ Stander is a born leader.
Many rugby traditionalists are not in favour of the use of mic’s on players but when you get a result like this, they’re surely worthwhile.
Munster had a massive 23-3 victory over Ospreys on Saturday and CJ Stander was central to the province’s success.
The South African born Red has submerged himself in the province’s culture, he embodies everything that is good about Munster Rugby with his infectious encouragement and selflessness.
This Sky Sport’s player mic only proved that even further.
Another great @CJStander #playermic as @Munsterrugby beat @ospreys to set up a Guinness @PRO12rugby Final v @Scarlets SS1 5.30pm Sat pic.twitter.com/G9LFsuq609
— Sky Sports Rugby Union (@SkySportsRugby) May 21, 2017
What passion, what character.
Stander thrives under pressure and he is a calming influence to his team-mates.
His heart is in the oven but his head is in the fridge, as Eddie O’Sullivan once said.
There is a clear example of the team spirit and morale in this Munster side with the exchange between Stander and Zebo after Zebo’s phenomenal try.
They are team mates, they are friends, they are united in their aims to progress Munster Rugby and it’ll take a brave man to bet against them in their Pro12 Final against Scarlets next Saturday.
Another great day in Thomond Park with the brothers! Excited for a big week ahead! #SUAF @… https://t.co/xSCBcKPqcc
— C J Stander (@CJStander) May 21, 2017
The back row had a huge role to play in Munster’s victory with his phenomenal physicality and durability on show throughout. The man made 19 successful tackles in a game where he and his team-mates fire and determination was evident from the word go.
You can only imagine the speeches this man gives in a dressing room to rise his comrades. He’d have the hair standing on the back of their heads.
