Steyn out to prove a point

 

The 2007 World Cup-winner has been pegged as an integral part of coach Jake Whites plans, he has been made a vice captain and the Sharks boss has categorically stated he will start every game – barring injury.

 

Having started both matches of the Sharks' 2014 Super Rugby campaign so far Steyn has tried to get himself back to the heights he reached in France at the 2007 World Cup where White was once again in charge of the then 19-year-old prodigy.

 

"I think there's a lot of excitement for me because there was some stuff said over the last couple of years," Steyn said.

 

After returning from a three-year spell in France in the middle of 2012 the utility back was criticised for his mobility, size and a loss of pace

 

"Everybody wants to prove people wrong and I'm a fighter. I try to do my best every time I get onto the field but I'm just glad to be here, 

without injuries and everything's going well."

 

"When you have had lot of injuries, just to run freely again is fun and when you have no niggles you get into form much quicker," he said.

 

"I am feeling very good about my game after struggling so much last year and it's just good to be on the field and getting back into some form."

 

Steyn, who was an Under-19 World Championship winner back in 2005, was earmarked for greatness even while still in high school. He was given his senior Springbok chance by White in 2006, before forming a key part of their 2007 success in France.

 

He was delighted with the opportunity to work with White again, heaping praise on the man who gave him his big break.

 

"Jake was the one who gave me a chance at the Boks, so I will always be thankful to him," the 26-year-old said.

 

"Everybody knows him (White), he has everything behind his name.

 

"He went through under-21s, he won the World Cup, he went to a poor Brumbies side and took them to the final last year, so nobody can question his pedigree.

 

"He's done well and we've been winning, so I think all of us are looking forward to doing well under him. I am just blessed now to be at a place where the coach understands me and I'm enjoying it."

 

The coastal side won their two opening matches of the season, before having a bye last weekend. They resume their campaign against the Lions in Durban on Saturday.

 

Source: SAPA