'Life of the party': Springbok stars pay tribute to RG Snyman ahead of 50th cap

Judging from their remarks, Snyman is one of the most popular players in the squad thanks to his infectious energy and playful sense of humour.

What makes his journey with the Boks even more impressive is that he has managed to maintain those qualities despite facing numerous serious injuries that threatened to derail his career.

It's no wonder, then, that teammates like Cheslin Kolbe, Grant Williams, Eben Etzebeth, and Thomas du Toit describe him as the beating heart of the Bomb Squad - and the Boks' secret weapon both on and off the field.

Cheslin Kolbe

"He's definitely a giant of a player, but so happy for him that he gets to get to his milestone this weekend.

"I think he's been through a lot with injuries and setbacks, but he just kept fighting and wanting to be back in this environment. It is a special place to be a part of.

"I'm sure that whenever he goes out on that field he'll definitely leave his everything out there. The past few games he's played he's been physically hungry to dominate.

"He's just a good player to have in this environment and just brings a different energy to the team... always happy, smiling, but when he gets on the field it's a different RG."

Eben Etzebeth

"Me and RG are very close. We enjoy similar things in life and he's just a type of guy that you want [to have around].

"You get that type of guy in a team that that no one has a problem with - he always likes everyone and everyone always likes him. He's that guy for us - the life of the party.

"He's a guy you want in your team. Especially on game days because he's so physical and such a great player, and off the field he's just fun to have in the squad - you can always have a joke and a laugh.

"He's so vital for us - that whole Bomb Squad works when he's in there. He can come on and change the game with his attributes, his ball skills. You don't see many players with the skill-set and ability that he has. He's a special player for us."

Grant Williams

"Deserves 50 more if I can put it that way.

"He's been battling with injuries at first, but I'm so happy to see him playing his best rugby and I'm happy for him to see get 50.

"He always guides us... guides myself. If I'm part of the Bomb Squad, his energy is contagious. I'm just happy for him.

Thomas du Toit

"I think everyone can see from the outside the type of player he is. He is definitely a colourful player. It really looks like he enjoys himself when he's on the pitch.

"I always tell people about that if you don't like him, you are the problem. He gets along with everyone. He might not be everyone's cup of tea for a whole day (laughs) but he's a great person to be around. He's a very enjoyable person and everyone gets along with him so well, and he's got unbelievable banter.

"I just think he's been immense for the Springboks."