Jooste faces biggest test yet against Van der Merwe
SPOTLIGHT: At just 19, Bulls winger Cheswill Jooste is already regarded as one of the fastest young players in South African rugby, but Friday night will present one of the toughest challenges of his short career when he lines up against one of the most explosive finishers in the game.
Jooste’s eye-catching United Rugby Championship debut was the stuff of childhood dreams. The same dreams formed while playing touch rugby on the streets of Vredenburg on Sunday nights.
Thrown straight into the deep end, the teenage winger responded emphatically, crossing twice in the Bulls’ thrilling 53-40 opening-round win over the Ospreys at Loftus Versfeld.
The Vodacom Bulls create a try out of nothing 🤩✨
Cheswill Jooste brings the visitors right back into this match with just over 10 minutes to play ⏱️
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It was a performance that underlined the faith Johan Ackermann has placed in a player he knows well. Jooste had already impressed in the Currie Cup and was a key figure in the Junior Springboks’ World Rugby Under-20 Championship triumph, where Ackermann also worked closely with him as a coaching consultant.
Ackermann admits the step up this week will be significant, but believes the youngster is ready.
“It will be one of his biggest tests, especially with the rain and wind we’re likely to get,” Ackermann said. “Edinburgh kick a lot, and they’ll test him there, and Duhan is as big as a lock but has speed.
“I’m excited about this challenge for Cheswill, and I believe he’ll stand his ground. The team will be around him. While it would have been great to have Canan’s experience, a game like this can do a lot for his development.
“Whatever happens, it’s a wonderful opportunity for Cheswill and good for his development.”
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