Springbok newcomer Cameron Hanekom named one of URC's fastest-rising stars

With 16 teams across five countries and two hemispheres, some of the brightest and best rising young stars call the URC their home, and Bulls hardman Cameron Hanekom is one of them, having been identified as one of the five fastest-rising youngsters in the championship right now.

The 22-year-old has been likened to legendary Springbok Pierre Spies, and when you watch him play - it's easy to see why.

A powerful ball carrier with an eye for the try-line, Hanekom also boasts blistering pace and is almost unstoppable when he gets going.

He announced himself to the world with a stunning Player of the Match performance in last year's URC semi-final and has picked up right where he left off his season.

Hanekom made his Springbok debut against Wales last year and looks set to be the next big superstar number eight for the reigning world champions.

Speaking after his first Bok call-up last November, Hanekom described the experience as a "dream come true".

"It's been an unbelievable experience so far, especially being with double Rugby World Cup winners and players I've looked up to for so long, so it's really a dream come true and something I can't really describe," he said.

"I've always strived to become a Springbok and it's just fantastic to be here and to learn as much as I can from these players."

Other players to make the list of fastest rising stars in the URC include Leinster flyhalf Sam Prendergast, Cardiff fullback Cam Winnett, Glasgow Warriors scrumhalf Jamie Dobie and Zebre Parma utility back Lorenzo Pani - making Hanekom the only forward on the list.

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