Willie: Boks yet to reach full potential
The naysayers may be ready to write off South Africa's World Cup prospects, but Springbok fullback Willie le Roux believes the best is yet to come.
Following a bitterly disappointing year-end tour, in which the Boks lost to both Ireland and Wales, the bookmakers have dropped South Africa down their 'rankings' – behind outright favourites New Zealand (available at 6/4) and hosts England (4/1), the Boks' supporters being offered a generous 5/1 on their team.
However, 25-year-old Le Roux – who has played 25 Tests since his debut against Italy in 2013 – said the Boks have faith in their ability to get it right when it matters most.
"If we don't believe we can win it, we shouldn't be going," the Bok and Cheetahs fullback said.
"I honestly feel this group of players is yet to reach their full potential," he added.
He added that he was not going to add additional pressure on himself by getting caught up in the World Cup hype before the Super Rugby season even gets underway.
"I try not to think too far ahead," Le Roux said.
"There is a lot of rugby to be played before then and at the moment I would just like to focus on making sure I am at my best for the Cheetahs Super Rugby campaign."
The Bok flyer, who was one of five nominees for the World Rugby Player of the Year award last year, said the Cheetahs are determined to make up for 2014's bitterly disappointing Super Rugby campaign – which saw them finish a lowly 14th, just ahead of the Rebels.
"I wouldn't say the responsibility rests solely on the coaches, or anyone else for that matter," he said, adding: "Each individual needs to take responsibility for their own personal jobs for us to be successful as a unit."
Having played for the Boland and then Griquas before making his Bok debut. admitted that it required determination to realise his Green and Gold dream.
"After joining the Griquas I spent two full seasons playing Super Rugby for the Cheetahs before getting an opportunity at International level," Le Roux said.
"Guess the lesson is that everyone's path takes a different road and just because yours doesn't follow the norm it doesn't mean you can't reach the destination. One foot in front of the other and just keep on keeping on."
He added that he would have preferred beating Ireland and Wales on the year-end tour, over getting global recognition in the form of a Player of the Year finalist.
"Personal accolades are always flattering and to be nominated in that company is obviously something to cherish, but being part of a successful team is even more fulfilling and something I hope we will achieve as a group."
His advice to teenage boys out there thinking of becoming a professional rugby player: "Work hard and stay true to your strengths and what defines you as a player. Find people you can trust, build a relationship with and walk a path with. Remember that rugby doesn't last forever and take into consideration and make provision for what will be important after your playing days."
Interview courtesy of @PUMASouthAfrica
@rugby365com
