Today’s match between England and the Barbarians was always going to be special for George Kruis as he plays his final game of rugby. However, nobody could have predicted just how special the game would be.
Aside from Will Skelton’s red card it was a near perfect day for the Barbarians, racking up over 50 points and defeating England at Twickenham. Even with a team filled with French stars, achieving that with a man down is quite something.
What a day – Thanks to you all for your support 🍾 #ENGvBAR #Baabaas #rugby pic.twitter.com/yML6McSWX4
— Barbarian FC (@Barbarian_FC) June 19, 2022
One of the only criticisms of the Baa Baas during the game was the lack of flair usually associated with the legendary team as they opted for posts early on over kicking for the corner.
As the game entered the second half however, the box of tricks started to open up. On the 46th minute, the man of the moment, Kruis, stepped up and slotted a conversion albeit right in front of the sticks, and as we know all fans love a successful kick by a forward.
Some may of thought that was the ex-Saracens lock’s only moment in the sun, it wasn’t. After a world class try by the Barbarians on the 74th minute, Kruis found himself with a second opportunity for a conversion in front of the sticks.
What Kruis did next, nobody saw coming. He cooly stepped up, turned around and BACKHEELED the ball through the posts -Unbelievable stuff.
George Kruis showboating 2 from 2 #ENGVBAR pic.twitter.com/q0TceS2lzf
— MW Home PT (@MWHomePT) June 19, 2022
Moments such as this reminds the world exactly what the Barbarians are about and why they are so loved by supporters around the globe.
Still not content however, George Kruis scored another conversion in the final minute, making it a hat trick. Just to top things off, he was deservedly awarded player of the match. What a way to end a brilliant career.
Aside from the skills and tricks by the side led by Fabien Galthie, their performance was professional, controlled and well managed when down to fourteen men.
It was fitting that the Barbarians put in such a terrific performance today. The match was tinged with emotion after the passing of Wales and Barbarians legend Phil Bennett, who would have looked down on today with a big smile on his face.
A lovely tribute to the late, great Phil Bennett from @Barbarian_FC ❤️🏉🤍🖤 pic.twitter.com/1plxdxY63N
— World Rugby (@WorldRugby) June 19, 2022
Even thought Kruis scored a back-heeled conversion, the moment of the match came before kick off as the Barbarians lined up in the figure of a number 10 – a beautiful tribute to an icon of the game.
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