Olympic dream alive and well for Specman
After missing a few rounds – as part of coach Neil Powell's 'rotation' policy – Specman gets another chance to impress before the final squad is named ahead of the Olympic Games in Rio later this year.
Specman, who is back in the team for this weekend's Paris leg of the Sevens World Series, admitted he felt "scared" when he saw other players taking their opportunities in the last few rounds on the circuit.
"When you see how well the other players are doing, then doubt sets in," Specman said in an interview ahead of the three-day tournament in Paris.
"However, the nice thing is how the guys who stay behind [at the Sevens team's base in Stellenbosch] always stay positive and help each other," he added.
Specman was in fine form in previous tournaments, but was rested for the last two tournaments in Hong Kong and Singapore.
Coach Neil Powell included the playmaker for Paris, the second last tournament in the 2015/16 series.
"I am very happy to be here and I would like to thank the coach and management for giving me this opportunity to travel to Paris to play in this tournament," Specman said.
"To be back in the squad and playing is wonderful.
"It is not nice sitting at home and watch the boys play, but I understand and see the bigger picture.
"The coach needed to give everybody an opportunity to see if they can add value – with the Olympics in mind."
Specman used the time not playing to sharpen his skills set.
"So while it was sad to say behind that, also gave me the chance to work on my fitness and some core basics at home.
"The guys back in Stellenbosch were also fantastic in their support and we all worked together to be ready for when we are called upon.
"They are always positive and supportive and that makes the hard work easier," Specman said.
Specman is keen to return to the sparkling form that he showed in Wellington at the end of January.
"The team must do well all around," he said.
"If they go forward, I can play well, but I also need to do my bit to make sure they are on the front foot.
"The great thing about the BlitzBoks is the way we support each other.
"That teamwork has been a highlight for me," said Specman, who will play in his 12th tournament for South Africa.
* Meanwhile BlitzBoks suffered an injury scare on Tuesday, with Justin Geduld pulling up with a hamstring niggle.
Powell decided not to risk further injury to one of his stars of the season and pulled Geduld out of the tournament.
He will be replaced by Stephan Dippenaar, who will join the team on Wednesday.
Geduld, who scored 238 points so far this season (fifth on the overall list for the season), will return home to receive the treated needed to make sure he remains in contention for the Olympic Games.
