– Cape Town Even though it has been a while, Deon Fourie still has what it takes.
The Stormers breakdown specialist has been picked on the Springboks’ bench for Saturday’s Rugby Championship match against the Wallabies.
Fourie, 35, was a star for the United Rugby Championship-winning Stormers and merited his call-up to the Springboks.
While he played flank for John Dobson’s club, he has considerable hooking experience. Therefore, the workhorse has no problem providing reinforcements in jersey No. 16.
There have been a number of throw-in troubles at the lineout for the Boks in recent weeks, so Fourie was naturally questioned if he is up to the challenge should he play in Sydney.
“I believe that is only a minor part of being a hooker; there are other other responsibilities,” stated Fourie.
“I’ve been doing that with the Stormers and the Boks for quite some time” (training at hooker). A few years ago in France, I, too, played hooky.
In my 16 years as a professional athlete, I believe I have played hooker more than flank. As previously said, there is more to playing hooky than throwing passes. My training at hooker has been proceeding smoothly.
“You must maintain your performance and continue doing what you’re doing.”
While Fourie is not new to his role this weekend, the dynamic utility back Canan Moodie is a fresh addition to the team.
The Bulls teenager will make his debut on the wing for the Boks on Saturday, and substitute scrumhalf Cobus Reinach, who has recovered from a shoulder injury, is looking forward to his performance.
“With Canan… what a champion,” stated Reinach.
“I believe he will be full of confidence, since he will know that 22 other teammates have his back. It’s going to be a major event.
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“He is a young boy who is enthusiastic. I believe we are all eager to see what he can accomplish, so I anticipate that he will go out there and make a significant contribution.”
Reinach himself is eager to return to the pack.
“I am so ecstatic that I cannot sleep at night.
I really anticipate taking the field. Reinach stated, “It’s great to be back; I’ve been a member of the team since the beginning, but I can only laugh now.”
Damian Willemse will start at No. 10 due to the absence of Handre Pollard and Elton Jantjies due to injury.
While he’s been a beast at No. 15 and when he’s come in at No. 12 this season, Willemse will be thrust into the unusual position of Bok general. The Stormers man has demonstrated maturity everytime he has been required to play a new position, and it is anticipated that he will do the same on Saturday.
@WynonaLouw