As the Blitzboks gear up for this weekend's showdown in Perth, flyhalf Tristan Leyds is stepping up to the plate, embracing a meatier role in the squad amidst the absence of seasoned pros like Selvyn Davids, Dewald Human, and Ronald Brown. With his 15th World Series event on the horizon, Leyds is not just finding his feet; he's ready to sprint.
Leyds, who debuted in Perth back in 2024, is no stranger to the pressures of international play. "I have grown as a Blitzboks player over the seasons, and I am coming to grips with the demands of the World Series," Leyds commented, adding that even rivals have noticed his amped-up fitness levels. This weekend marks a full circle moment as he returns to the scene of his first cap, eager to shake off the rust from an injury-laden season.
"Even some of my opponents from other teams remarked on my improved fitness."
The challenges are stacking up for Leyds, who's not just filling in big shoes but also juggling added leadership responsibilities. "Stepping into the breach is huge, but I love the new challenge," he admitted, reflecting on the legacy of his absent teammates. The additional leadership duties are a testament to his evolution within the team.
Last time out in Singapore, the Blitzboks' performance was a mixed bag, marred by unforced errors. Leyds was candid about the need for a mental shift, emphasizing, "We really can't play without the ball. We would attack for 30 seconds, give the ball away and then defend for two minutes." It's clear the squad is keen to tidy up their act in Perth.
Despite the hurdles, Leyds radiates confidence about the team's prospects down under. Looking beyond the immediate, he harbors ambitions of hitting personal milestones and perhaps another Olympic run. "On a personal note, I would love to reach 35 tournaments," he shared with a chuckle, eyeing longevity in his career with the green and gold.
The Blitzboks are set to face a challenging Pool A lineup, squaring off against Spain, Argentina, and Fiji. As the clock ticks down to these crucial matches, all eyes will be on Leyds and his crew to deliver some riveting rugby action.
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As the Blitzboks gear up for this weekend's showdown in Perth, flyhalf Tristan Leyds is stepping up to the plate, embracing a meatier role in the squad amidst the absence of seasoned pros like Selvyn Davids, Dewald Human, and Ronald Brown. With his 15th World Series event on the horizon, Leyds is not just finding his feet; he's ready to sprint.
Leyds, who debuted in Perth back in 2024, is no stranger to the pressures of international play. "I have grown as a Blitzboks player over the seasons, and I am coming to grips with the demands of the World Series," Leyds commented, adding that even rivals have noticed his amped-up fitness levels. This weekend marks a full circle moment as he returns to the scene of his first cap, eager to shake off the rust from an injury-laden season.
"Even some of my opponents from other teams remarked on my improved fitness."
The challenges are stacking up for Leyds, who's not just filling in big shoes but also juggling added leadership responsibilities. "Stepping into the breach is huge, but I love the new challenge," he admitted, reflecting on the legacy of his absent teammates. The additional leadership duties are a testament to his evolution within the team.
Last time out in Singapore, the Blitzboks' performance was a mixed bag, marred by unforced errors. Leyds was candid about the need for a mental shift, emphasizing, "We really can't play without the ball. We would attack for 30 seconds, give the ball away and then defend for two minutes." It's clear the squad is keen to tidy up their act in Perth.
Despite the hurdles, Leyds radiates confidence about the team's prospects down under. Looking beyond the immediate, he harbors ambitions of hitting personal milestones and perhaps another Olympic run. "On a personal note, I would love to reach 35 tournaments," he shared with a chuckle, eyeing longevity in his career with the green and gold.
The Blitzboks are set to face a challenging Pool A lineup, squaring off against Spain, Argentina, and Fiji. As the clock ticks down to these crucial matches, all eyes will be on Leyds and his crew to deliver some riveting rugby action.