Gelant: 'I don't think my freedom is taken away'
SPOTLIGHT: Warrick Gelant is relishing the opportunity to show a different side of his game against the Wallabies in Adelaide.
The 27-year-old fullback will be on the wing on Saturday and he has the arsenal to give the Aussies plenty of problems out wide.
He was lethal in a Stormers team that dazzled out wide in the 2021/22 United Rugby Championship, but he’s had limited opportunities to build on that form in the Springbok setup.
The Springboks are often associated with a conservative game plan, which means some of their more dangerous players are not given the licence to thrill.
However, Gelant said that will not be the case this weekend and he is ready to give the Bok coaches something to think about with the World Cup just over a year away.
“The Stormers and the Springboks are totally different, but I don’t think my freedom is taken away,” said Gelant.
“It’s just my role and number that changes.
“I don’t think one of the backs are put in a box of not expressing themselves.
“Just the way we play, it’s working for us and I think we are tight-knit when it comes to that.
“What makes me excited is the fact that I know the guys that I am playing with, so I am looking forward to the opportunity to be on the wing this weekend.”
Focussing on that wing role, Gelant added: “I think it is an amazing opportunity to showcase different skillset in my game.
“The opportunity is there to show what we can do in different roles and responsibilities.”
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#SPOTLIGHT: WATCH as Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber explains why a lack of game time since May will not be a problem for Frans Steyn. 👇- #RugbyChampionship #SouthAfrica #Springboks #Australia #Wallabies #AUSvRSA https://t.co/4o7elHCijF
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Unknown factor
Gelant believes that the current Wallabies team are a different kettle of fish from what they have faced in the past.
“I think the Wallabies are going to pose a different threat,” said the Racing 92-bound player.
“I think they are a quality side and what makes it even more difficult is that we haven’t played in Super Rugby in the last few years.
“We haven’t experienced how the Australians are playing this season, but we can only focus on ourselves.
“I feel that we are in a good space at the moment and the backline players are gelling. I think it is going to be an exciting game on Saturday.”
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