VIDEO: 'Rassie and his team have really stepped up'
RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP SPOTLIGHT: Cynics abound, but the players believe in the direction Rassie Erasmus is taking the Springboks.
Frans Steyn, two years after his previous appearance in the famous Green and Gold of the Boks, played a critical part in South Africa’s 35-17 win over Australia at Ellis Park at the weekend.
Ironically his previous appearance for the Boks was also off the bench at Ellis Park, a 35-12 win over France.
Not surprising he spoke of being “happy” the Bok coach, Erasmus, gave him another chance.
“I am just here enjoying my time and enjoying South Africa,” the 32-year-old, 57 times capped utility back said.
He is looking to add a few more caps during the remainder of the Rugby Championship – against New Zealand and Argentina.
“I’m actually happy that I didn’t start [against Australia], because [after being in the squad for just two weeks] I’m still trying to get used to all the structures and the stuff,” he told a post-match media briefing.
“Being in France, I can’t say we don’t get coached that well, but Rassie and his team have really stepped up and are professional.
“I’m just trying to get used to everything getting into the right places [on the field].
“They’ve done a great job.”
* Continue reading below …
While it was only two years between Tests at Ellis Park, Steyn said it felt like 10 years.
“It was something special and I tried to enjoy it as best I can.
“I can be sent back to France tomorrow and then [being a Springbok] is over. But I will try my best.”
The Boks face the All Blacks in a Round Two encounter that shapes up as a possible tournament decider – after both the Boks and Kiwis won their opening matches at the weekend.
The winner of the Cake Tin contest will take a massive leap closer to the 2019 title, less than two months out from the World Cup.
South Africa opened their 2019 campaign by outscoring the Wallabies five tries to two in a 35-17, bonus-point, victory in Johannesburg at the weekend.
The All Blacks opened their Rugby Championship campaign with a hard-earned 20-16 victory against Argentina in Buenos Aires.
“It will be [a] massive [game],” the Bok utility said.
“We’ll have to wait and see if I get picked.
“Most of the other guys also played well [at Ellis Park].
“If I don’t play, I’ll be there supporting the guys who do.
“If I play, I’ll try my best.”
He admitted that his performances in the Green and Gold may not be flawless, but “I’ll do my best”.
Related articles
Bring on the All Blacks
All Blacks’ victory like ‘winning the lotto’
‘Awesome’ Jantjies gives Boks real depth
Erasmus reveals his ‘All Black hand’
Player Ratings: Fumbling Wallabies
Player Ratings: Bok’s fairytale continues
