AUDIO: The dazzling duo that even leaves Kriel mystified
AUDIO: South African speedsters Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse have dazzled fans with their electrifying pace and unparalleled skills, but their unpredictability often leaves even their own players mystified.
New Springbok captain Jesse Kriel admitted that the duo not only leaves opposition defenders confused, but also often leaves him scratching his head about their next move.
When asked what fans could expect from the Test match against Italy at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, given that the Azzuri might be one of the Springboks’ weaker opponents this year, Kriel pulled no punches.
Wearing the No. 13 jumper for the majority of South Africa’s Tests, he has a front-row seat to the dazzling footwork of his two wingers as he often deposits the last pass to the speedsters out wide.
“Sometimes it’s very confusing,” Kriel said, smiling at the captain’s press conference on Friday.
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“Because you give those guys the ball and then you don’t know where they are going to go, and you have to clear that breakdown.
“So sometimes it’s a bit of guessing, I’m not going to lie.
“But it is unbelievable to play with guys of that calibre,” the captain says.
“Fans expect guys like Cheslin and Kurt-Lee to get the ball and make magic.
“Italy also has special players. It will be an exciting match, and the Loftus crowd is special. I have played a lot of rugby in Pretoria. It is a special stadium and the first official Test of the year will be a great occasion.”
“The thing about Cheslin and Kurt-Lee is that they are the most humble guys you will ever meet. They are salt-of-the-earth guys willing to sacrifice for the team. That is why they are even more brilliant than what you see on the field.
“I can’t talk highly enough about those two guys. They are really good human beings.”
For Kriel, the 67th Springbok Test captain, it is important that the Springboks launch their season on a winning note, and it all starts against Italy this weekend.
A big score against the Azzuri is on the cards, as they have rested a host of their top players, but Kriel is not leaving anything to chance. And it starts with him as captain, leading by example rather than words.
On Friday, Kriel tried to voice how special the moment was for him and admitted that having a crop of very experienced players around him makes a big difference.
“It’s obviously very special.”
“I’m very excited, and I’m in the fortunate position that I’ve got such strong leaders around me. Siya’s been incredible, Eben (Etzebeth), Handre (Pollard).
“There is so much experience, and the guys are willing to help, give advice, and just be there when you need someone to ask a question.
“I’m extremely lucky in that sense, and very proud to lead a team that I can honestly call some of the guys my best friends. It’s a really special occasion and something that I’m really proud of.”
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