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Force behind Springbok Fassi's dream debut

By Leezil Hendricks
Sunday 4 Jul 2021

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: It was not a perfect performance from the Springboks, but it was a perfect debut for Aphelele Fassi.

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The 23-year-old got his international career off to a flying start on Friday in the Springboks’ 40-9 victory against Georgia at Loftus Versfeld.

Fassi made a strong statement at the highest level as he darted down the left sideline to score the first of the Springboks’ six tries in the fourth minute.

The Sharks star later proved instrumental in creating Cobus Reinach’s try thanks to a stunning chip kick.

The 23-year-old was modest about his first performance in the Bok jersey and credited assistant coach Mzwandile Stick as the man behind the confident display.

Fassi usually dons the fullback jersey at the Sharks, made his Bok debut on the wing.

*Article continues below…

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“I saw some space in front of me and my first instinct was to back myself and go for the try,” Fassi said.

“One of the coaches, Mzwandile Stick, gave me confidence during the week to just back myself. So, the first thing I thought was just trying to finish off the try.

He added: “Special moment for me. The team was brilliant in cleaning up and allowing me to score.”

After kicking off his provincial career in a similarly impressive fashion with a try on debut for the Sharks.

“When I played my first Currie Cup game the same thing happened and I did visualise it, but I didn’t think it would happen [at the Springboks].

“Everything just happened so quickly, and I decided to back my instincts and ability to so. It is something I’ll cherish for a long time.

“I am very proud to represent my country, it’s every young players’ dream and I’ve had the honour and privilege to do so, which I am extremely proud about. It’s good to be in the system.”

@leezil07
@rugby365com

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