Record-breaking Papier gets Bok look-in
SPOTLIGHT: Bulls scrumhalf Embrose Papier is not out of the Springbok picture, according to head coach Johan Ackermann.
Ackermann confirmed at the Bulls’ team announcement press conference ahead of their clash against Zebre that the Boks made contact with Papier, who has been in the Test wilderness since 2018.
The livewire scrumhalf is in sensational form for the Bulls and will surpass the legendary Joost van der Westhuizen’s record as the scrumhalf who played the most matches for the Pretoria-based outfit (169) in all competitions when he takes the field off the bench against Zebre for game 170.
Ackermann had heaps of praise for the 7 Test Bok and confirmed that he’s been contacted by Rassie and co following injuries to fellow Bok scrumhalves Grant Williams and Cobus Reinach.
“The Boks made contact with him,” Ackermann said
“There weren’t any alignment camps again since the injuries to Springbok No.9s, but they’ve made contact with him.
“I’m sure they’re keeping an eye on him and spoke to him regarding work-ons in his games, which is good news for us as it means they’re looking at him.
“But there are no guarantees. Grant Williams is almost ready to return, but I’m not sure about the other Bok scrumhalves.
“Rassie and co will select their squad accordingly, and hopefully Embrose keeps on consistently performing, but unfortunately, Bok selection is outside of his control.”
*Also read: URC, Round 17 – Saturday’s Teams and Predictions
Speaking on Papier breaking Van der Westhuizen’s record, Ackermann credited the milestone to consistent performances and said that he’s been key to the Bulls’ cause this season.
The article continues below…
“He’s been massive to our cause. I’ve known him [Papier] since his schoolboy days as he played with my son,” the Bulls mentor said.
“He was an outstanding player at school and took it forward in his professional career.
“Since I joined the Bulls, he’s been a very quiet person, but he is an exceptional No.9
“He’s got all the abilities, and what stands out is his support play and speed.
“The fact that he’s in such good form for us helps in many games in terms of his influence on the match.
“For him to reach that achievement of surpassing Joost [Van der Westhuizen] means you have to consistently play well to be selected, as Joost in his time was the world’s best No.9.
“There’s no doubt he would’ve been selected in any team, so for Embrose to break that record is massive.”
NEW IN THE APP: Official World Rugby Rankings hub! Compare team rankings side-by-side, with data going back 20 years.
Download the RugbyPass app on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android) now!
