Springbok wing race intensifies ahead of Greatest Rivalry
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: With the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series just around the corner, Springbok wing Kurt-Lee Arendse admits he still has plenty of work to do if he is to secure his place in the squad.
The speedster crossed for a try in the Springboks’ 43-0 victory over Wales at Kings Park Stadium, taking his tally to 25 tries in just 32 Tests.
Although it was a relatively quiet outing by his lofty standards, Arendse still produced a solid all-round performance and looked assured under the high ball.
Despite his impressive strike rate, the Paarl-born World Cup winner insists he cannot afford to ease up, with fierce competition for places on the wing ahead of the highly anticipated series against the All Blacks.
Cheslin Kolbe appears to be the only certainty, while Canan Moodie, Ethan Hooker, Edwill van der Merwe and Jaco Williams are all in contention.
Moodie and Hooker also offer versatility by covering the midfield, while Williams had an incredible debut against Wales.
The 20-year-old wing scored a try and looked calm during his first test match.
“The Greatest Rivalry will be massive and to be part of it will be special,” said Arendse.
“But to be honest, I still have a lot of work to do in terms of my game; under the high balls, on the attack, so that is what I will focus on.
“If I get the opportunity, I will look to grab it with both hands. Even if I am not part of it, I will still cheer the boys on.
“However, we will prepare well for it and ensure we are ready for the All Blacks.”
Arendse’s 25th Test try also saw him draw level with legendary fullback Percy Montgomery on the Springboks’ all-time try-scoring list. Breyton Paulse, on 26 tries, is now firmly within reach.
However, milestones are not something that motivates the 30-year-old.
“To be honest, I don’t keep track of it.
“I’m just grateful to represent my country and play with the boys.”
Reflecting on the convincing win over Wales, Arendse felt handling errors prevented the Springboks from making even more of their opportunities, while the wet weather also played a significant role.
“We adapted to what the conditions asked of us.
“It wasn’t ideal, though. We prepared well and made the ball wet during training sessions.
“Vusi [Moyo, flyhalf] also controlled the game really well, with Cobus [Reinach] on his inside and Damian [de Allende] and Jesse [Kriel] on his outside.
“They also helped him during the week. I am happy for him; he is a Springbok now and can take things further from this.”
