Amid the ongoing tussle for the coveted Springboks' number 15 jersey, former South African full-back Conrad Jantjes has tipped Damian Willemse for a different role. Despite Willemse's impressive performances as full-back, Jantjes argues that inside centre might just be his best position. This insight comes from Jantjes, a veteran of 24 Tests for South Africa between 2001 and 2008, who also clinched a bronze medal with the South African sevens team at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
Appearing on the "Behind the Ruck" podcast, Jantjes praised the current Springboks setup, especially the powerhouse performances from the forwards that set a strong foundation for the backs. “The Boks’ forwards give such a solid platform for their backline. It's no wonder the full-backs are thriving,” he remarked.
Discussing the array of talent vying for the full-back position, including Aphelele Fassi, Willie le Roux, Cheslin Kolbe, and Willemse, Jantjes shared his personal preference.
"I'm a big fan of Damian at 12. When he played against the All Blacks in Wellington, I gave it the biggest thumbs up,"
he stated, underlining Willemse's versatility but emphasizing his skills as a ball player.
Jantjes also revealed a conversation he had with Willemse about his preferred position. “The first time I met Damian, I asked him if he preferred playing 10, 12, or 15. While he initially leaned towards 15, I've always thought of him as more effective at 12,” Jantjes explained.
Reflecting on the dynamic South African backline, Jantjes couldn't hide his admiration for the combination of Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Willemse. “Playing alongside talents like Sacha and Damian would have been a dream. Their ability to draw in defenders creates enormous space out wide,” he added.
In conclusion, while Willemse has proven his mettle at full-back, figures like Jantjes see his potential maximized at inside centre, where his ball-playing prowess can truly shine. This perspective not only highlights the depth of talent within the Springboks squad but also the strategic considerations in play as they gear up for future challenges.
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Amid the ongoing tussle for the coveted Springboks' number 15 jersey, former South African full-back Conrad Jantjes has tipped Damian Willemse for a different role. Despite Willemse's impressive performances as full-back, Jantjes argues that inside centre might just be his best position. This insight comes from Jantjes, a veteran of 24 Tests for South Africa between 2001 and 2008, who also clinched a bronze medal with the South African sevens team at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
Appearing on the "Behind the Ruck" podcast, Jantjes praised the current Springboks setup, especially the powerhouse performances from the forwards that set a strong foundation for the backs. “The Boks’ forwards give such a solid platform for their backline. It's no wonder the full-backs are thriving,” he remarked.
Discussing the array of talent vying for the full-back position, including Aphelele Fassi, Willie le Roux, Cheslin Kolbe, and Willemse, Jantjes shared his personal preference.
"I'm a big fan of Damian at 12. When he played against the All Blacks in Wellington, I gave it the biggest thumbs up,"
he stated, underlining Willemse's versatility but emphasizing his skills as a ball player.Jantjes also revealed a conversation he had with Willemse about his preferred position. “The first time I met Damian, I asked him if he preferred playing 10, 12, or 15. While he initially leaned towards 15, I've always thought of him as more effective at 12,” Jantjes explained.
Reflecting on the dynamic South African backline, Jantjes couldn't hide his admiration for the combination of Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Willemse. “Playing alongside talents like Sacha and Damian would have been a dream. Their ability to draw in defenders creates enormous space out wide,” he added.
In conclusion, while Willemse has proven his mettle at full-back, figures like Jantjes see his potential maximized at inside centre, where his ball-playing prowess can truly shine. This perspective not only highlights the depth of talent within the Springboks squad but also the strategic considerations in play as they gear up for future challenges.