The flying Sharks winger has been in stellar form this season for the Sharks. In fact he's been sublime since the Sharks' second game against the British & Irish Lions last year, at least that's when his efforts on the field caught my attention. He has made the right wing his own since the absence of Sbu Nkosi and I honestly believe the latter would be hard pressed to win his position back.
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Kok having represented the BlitzBokke from 2013 to 2018 before he transitioned into the full format of the game, starting with a four month sting at Toulouse before linking up with his current side, the Durban based Sharks. Often the transition from 7's to 15's is a bit of a struggle as the players need to adapt in many aspects of their game. Kwagga Smith is possibly the big success story for this transition but others like Kok, Sentatla and Ruhan Nel have also done well in recent times.
At 1.79m tall and weighing in at about 94kg he has all the physical attributes of your typical South African wing and he puts them to great use. He can always be spotted out on the field getting involved in every facet of the game. He is adept at coming off his wing to contribute heavily on defense in the 1st phase and is a real nuisance to sides looking to distribute the ball quickly.
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On top of that, the man never seems to run out of energy. He is consistent on the kick chase, insistent on making it seem like he'll take the quick tap at any moment and always rearing to go and pick up the pace of the game. With his long blonde locks, you may for a second think its Faf de Klerk you're seeing, such is the similar tenacity of their games, but it is the Sharks own version of the wiry Springbok scrumhalf that is getting the work done.
Kok thus far has been a stellar signing for the Sharks and a great servant to South African rugby both in the short and long format of the game. Rarely given praise or media attention, the man is a vital part of the Sharks Springbok laden backline and here is hoping he is able to continue this form throughout the business end of the United Rugby Championship.
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