BBC Sportrugbyunion

After last year's coruscating form Phillips had merely been solid until Saturday, when he unveiled the powerful running game that he had demonstrated to such good effect in 2008.

His scything break from a line-out, brushing off Peter Stringer, O'Connell and Luke Fitzgerland in the process, set up Stephen Jones to land the drop-goal which put Wales in front with five minutes to go.

It illustrated his game-breaking abilities to perfection - qualities which will be invaluable against the abrasive Springboks.

VERDICT: In with a real shout of the number nine shirt.