Schickerling destined for greatness

The 20-year-old Schickerling made a stunning comeback to the game in October last year after suffering a broken neck in a Provincial Under-21 clash against the Bulls in 2014.

He is now part of the Stormers' Super Rugby squad and his continuing on his path to fulfil his dream of becoming a Springbok one day. 

"That injury was not easy for him, but his work ethic has brought him back and if he continues working hard I think he will make a huge impact in South African rugby," said Winter.

"Nothing has been easy for him. To come back from an injury like that would have been tough for a lot of players, including myself. He is a proper tough kid."

Winter says Schickerling has all the right attributes to become a world-class lock.

"He's got great line-out ability and he is an intelligent kid. I could not compliment him enough – he is still young and he still got a lot to learn.

"He is blessed with this amazing talent for rugby and I really think he is going to do well. He just going to grow from strength to strength," said Winter.

While Schickerling, who was also one of the stars of the SA Under-20 side that finished as runners-up to England at the 2014 Junior World Championship, can play in both lock positions, Winter feels that the youngster is more at home in the No.5 jersey.

"I think he is good No.5 lock. I think he can play both, but I think he is a good No.5. 

"His got great line-out skills and he can call the line-out. He has got a natural feel for the game.

"Although he can match it up in the physical stakes, he runs great lines with the ball. He has a good pass and he thinks on his feet. 

"He is just a natural ball player. I think he will develop into a good No.5," Winter added.

By Warren Fortune

@FortuneWarren

@rugby365com