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Fans back Joost as top No 9

Cape Town - Joost van der Westhuizen is the best scrumhalf in the history of South African rugby - if not the world, Sport24 readers say.

Following comments from former All Black scrumhalf Justin Marshall that he regards Van der Westhuizen as the greatest No 9 in Springbok history, Sport24 readers have wholeheartedly agreed with his sentiments.

GALLERY: Joost van der Westhuizen through the years

The Springbok legend, who was diagnosed with motor neuron disease in 2011, had only grown in Marshall's estimation for the brave and resolute way in which he had come out supporting the fight against the disease.

Van der Westhuizen's Test try tally of 38 makes him the leading scrumhalf try-scorer in Test rugby, and the second highest try-scorer in any position in Springbok history: a testament to his attacking brilliance.

This is what Sport24 readers had to say about Joost:

"Agreed.[He is the best ever]." - Squegee pilot

"From one great legend to the other! Dankie Justin Marshall, dit beteken baie vir ons en ek is seker vir Joost ook!" - Ruan Pretorius

'I agree. Joost is definitely our greatest 9 with Fourie du Preez a close second. Unfortunately, currently, we have nobody of either stature in our team." - Brian Exmachina

"It's so true." - John Luckhoff

"Joost is the epitome of Springbok rugby with his never say die attitude. He is determined to beat this MND thing and his resolve is admirable. " - Sean

"Joost had it all on the pitch.The guy had sheer guts and determination and was king when it came to a battle of wits."
- S

"I have watched Springbok rugby for more than 60 years. He was the best I ever saw." - Peter Phillips

"Indeed, he was the greatest scrumhalf of all time, I can't see anyone filling his boots soon in the future, a true legend." - gwvickers

"Joost was great. He is by far the best scrum-half from the modern era." - chrisinoz.1

"Joost one of the best attacking scrumhalves (if not the best) ever."
- nico.eksteen


Joost van der Westhuizen is hailed by many as the greatest scrumhalf of the modern era. (Gallo Images)
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