Thanks mate. It's been a blast thus far. It kicked off with a series of physical tests to asess my body's capabilities and determine the specific areas I have to work on. Fortunately the PlAR did a VERY good overall job so I had no issues undertaking said tests, and even came through with better results than what the Staff were expecting.
After that, I was conducted through a series of intense drills covering all basic skills: passing, running, tackling, stepping, rucking, running support lines, scrambling lines, etc. The Staff paid a lot of attention to my bio-mechanics, as well as my technique before, during and after every move.
Having completed that part, I was taken somewhere else where I faced the first XV. Played 20 minutes as blindside flanker, facing Liam Messam. What a delight. I was amazed to see how hard it is to read what the backs are going to do. The finesse of the running lines, the exquisite timing of every pass, every step... the accuracy of Cruden's kicks... simply amazing.
Right now I am delving into their set moves and patters. Will spend some considerable time watching and re-watching dozens of hours of video footage from the last 2 seasons. I am a sucker for video analysys, so this feels like paradise!
As for Jacques du Plessis -- yep -- had the pleasure to exchange a few words with him, nothing much though. Amazing prospect. Reminds me a lot of myself in terms of general skills and forward play. I am not too close to the current U20 squad (except for Mike Willemse). I am close to some former U20s though, such as Etzebeth, Adendorff and especially Pieter-Steph du Toit. Great chap, better fisherman! Hehe.
Cruz, sounds awesome man.
Thomas when you have served your apprenticehip with the kiwi bird brains come to South Africa and learn how real forwards operate. You will then be ready to lead Argentina to greater sucess.
How strong do you see the Argies being this year? I felt they did very well in their debut year.
Hey guys
Sorry for the ignorance... why who is Cruz? What does he do?
Sounds very interesting.
Chip
