Kolbe and de Klerk excited for Lions challenge

Two of the Springboks’ overseas contingent spoke to the press yesterday and are itching to pull on their country’s colours once more. 

Cheslin Kolbe and Faf de Klerk – two of the heroes from the 2019 World Cup – had their say on yesterday ahead of Wednesday’s SA ‘A’ clash with the British & Irish Lions in Cape Town. 

“I had a fantastic season in Toulouse, but my focus now is on the national team,” Kolbe said. 

“I’m fortunate and excited to be part of this team and I’m looking forward to wearing the green and gold jersey again.” 

De Klerk faces a tough test as he goes up against the experienced and cerebral Conor Murray, but appears to be relishing the challenge. 

“I had a pretty decent season at the Sale Sharks and enjoyed the year, but it is great to get an opportunity with the Boks. 

“Murray has a good kicking game and that will be important in the games going forward. 

“But they have a good mix of players and that can change the dynamic of the way they want to play, so there is a bigger challenge than just Murray.” 

The chief concern for the Springboks is whether they will have the necessary match fitness to compete well with the Lions, but Kolbe did not appear too perturbed. 

“It doesn’t take a lot to get a Springbok up,” he said. “When one pulls that jersey over your head and there are 57 million people watching, we give everything, and we play for one another. The guys are excited, and they want to fire out there. 

“They are a well-balanced team in general. They have a mix of big players and some who run with the ball. I’ve competed against some of them in Europe and I know what they can do. 

“We have a big challenge ahead against a good British & Irish Lions team, and I am really looking forward to it.”