Five Currie Cup gems deserving of a shot in the brighter lights of the URC

This season's Currie Cup has already proven fertile ground for the tournament's stalwart but non-URC sides to showcase their leading players and attract contract offers from bigger teams.

The Pumas duo of flyhalf Tinus de Beer and lock Deon Slabbert will taste URC action in Wales with Cardiff and the Dragons, respectively, while prop Ig Prinsloo and centre Diego Appollis are off to the Sharks.

Griquas play-maker Zander du Plessis is off to the Lions.

Yet several other contenders deserving of an opportunity have emerged, too.

News24 takes a look at five contenders.

The Cheetahs unearthed several gems, but they haven't been considered due to their participation in the European Challenge Cup.

SOKUPHUMLA 'SOSO' XAKALASHE (Griffons)

At 29, he probably doesn't have much time on his side, but the man affectionately nicknamed Soso certainly seized his opportunity to showcase his wares at a higher level.

A compact, versatile option in the back-row, Xakalashe was a bundle of energy when he had the ball in his hand, proving a proficient carrier.

But it was his work rate on defence that stood out, particularly when the lowly Northern Free Staters were under the cosh.

Xakalashe completed 10 or more tackles per match in six matches during the campaign, including a heroic 17 against Western Province and Blue Bulls each.

The edges are still rough, but consistent exposure to a more engaging environment could see him become a late bloomer. 

HANRU SIRGEL (Griquas)

The Griquas skipper was cruelly denied a URC shot at the start of last season with the Lions when a knee injury curtailed his plans.

Yet the 25-year-old returned from that setback stronger than ever, maintaining his customary high standards during a campaign where the Peacock Blues