Daniël Mattheus Gerber (born 14 April 1958) is a South African former rugby union player who played for South Africa between 1980 and 1992. He played mainly at inside or outside centre, but also on the wing. His international career was severely limited because of South Africa's sporting isolation caused by apartheid. He won only 24 caps for South Africa (scoring 19 tries ), despite playing internationally for 12 years. Despite this, he was inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame in 2007.

Early life

Gerber initially played football and cricket at school level, but accelerated quickly when starting rugby, playing for SA schools.

Rugby career

In South African domestic rugby Gerber played 115 games for Eastern Province, 40 for Western Province and 24 for Orange Free State. Gerber's international career of games played and points scored:

Test history

Gerber scored 19 tries in 24 internationals, a very high strike rate for a centre.

Style of play

Gerber had very high acceleration and pace, could sidestep off either foot, break tackles, had a clear vision of space on the field, and high ball skill levels (catching, passing and kicking). He was also very solid in defence. Gerber attributed his sidestep to his early football. He trained extensively (particularly running, but also swimming, circuit training and weights) and had a high fitness level, which were unusual attributes before rugby went professional.

Legacy

Gerber has been described as one of the greatest ever rugby centres. He has been named South Africa's greatest ever centre, and Naas Botha has said he is one of the greatest ever South African rugby players. Martin Johnson named him in his International Rugby Hall of Fame member's XV, and Bill McLaren's named him in his 'all time' XV.

Personal life

Gerber is married to Elsabe. In 2002, he had heart surgery, and his family have a pattern of high cholesterol.