Angelo Davids

Blessed with searing pace and a sidestep that troubles even the best defences, Angelo Davids is one of South African rugby's most dangerous attacking backs. Born on 1 June 1999, the outside back has made his name with the Lions, where he operates primarily on the wing and at fullback. Davids first came to prominence in the sevens arena, featuring for South Africa on the World Rugby Sevens Series, and was part of the Junior Springbok set-up that contested the World Rugby Under-20 Championship. That grounding in the abbreviated game sharpened the footwork, support lines and finishing instinct that define his fifteens play. For the Lions he is deployed as a specialist finisher, a player whose acceleration and clean strike off either foot make him a constant threat whenever space appears out wide. Strong under the high ball and willing in the chase, he combines his attacking spark with a reliable presence in the back three. Still in the prime years of his career, Davids remains a key strike option for the Lions in United Rugby Championship and domestic competition.