Saturday’s United Rugby Championship (URC) matchup between the Stormers and Lions will not be an opportunity for Stormers center Dan du Plessis to prove anything.
When they face the Lions at Ellis Park, the Stormers will be looking to rebound from their loss to Cardiff.
Du Plessis stated that he has nothing to prove when he faces the middle of the Lions.
“I do not believe I have anything to prove. It’s always a pleasure to face a top opponent, and it’s a breath of new air to see the next generation of players emerge,” said Du Plessis.
“I will be examining the Lions’ games and watching Van Wyk more closely, but based on what I’ve seen so far, he’s a really talented player and I’m looking forward to facing him.”
Due to a major concussion, Du Plessis missed a significant portion of last year’s season.
The brilliant 27-year-old has battled injuries throughout his career and stated that it was difficult not to be on the field when the Stormers lifted the URC trophy at Cape Town Stadium after defeating the Bulls in the final last season.
“It was incredible to watch them hoist the trophy, but you obviously wish you were on the field with them,” he remarked. Even if you have contributed during the season, missing the championship game is a tough thing to swallow. However, I hope we can win it again this season and that I can play.”
The son of former Springbok Michael du Plessis undoubtedly would have become an international centre by now if he hadn’t sustained so many injuries.
He stated that his Springbok aspirations remain very much alive.
“If you don’t want to be a Springbok, you shouldn’t be on the field. You strive to be the greatest in your position at all times. However, I must deliver consistent performances for the Stormers week after week before I will be called up to the Springboks.”
The match begins at 4:00 p.m.