At the ripe age of 32, Jesse Kriel, alongside Damian de Allende, is set to feature in a pivotal Nations Championship showdown, marking a significant milestone for Springbok teammates Cheslin Kolbe and Damian Willemse as they each earn their 50th Test cap. Kriel, earning his 88th cap, remains fiercely motivated, debunking any myths of waning enthusiasm with age.
"My motivation hasn’t changed over the years. It’s to play and represent my country. If not, I think the motivation just gets more and more as you go on," Kriel asserted. He reflects on the progression of time with a sense of urgency and appreciation, "When you’re young you don’t think it will ever come to an end [and] when you get older you realize that you can only play until a certain age so each day gets more and more special."
The camaraderie within the team is palpable, with Kriel praising the unique bond shared among the players. "It’s so lekker here every day just spending time with some of your best friends and guys that you really enjoy going to work with. I don’t think there’s any lack of motivation for me. It’s just representing my country and trying to make my teammates proud."
"It’s such a privilege to be able to watch him do what he does on the field,"
De Allende, who is just eight matches shy of his 100th cap, is revered by Kriel not only for his gameplay but his character. "First of all, he’s very selfless, always puts the team first and he really loves his team. He’s a very special player."
Kolbe and Willemse, both reaching a half-century of caps, also drew high praise from Kriel for their dedication and selflessness. "Again, two really, really special people. I think both great human beings and, like Damian [de Allende], very selfless guys that are properly obsessed with the game and with rugby and performing well for the Springboks," he commented.
"I get to see the work he puts in there when no one’s watching."
Kriel highlights the unseen efforts of his teammates, especially noting Willemse's fervent study and competitiveness. "A proper student of the game and just so competitive and always just wants to be the best. I think it [50 caps] couldn’t have happened to two better guys."
Despite personal achievements, the focus for Kolbe and Willemse remains steadfast on the team's success. "I know that they won’t want to make this weekend about themselves. They are both just focused on getting the result for South Africa and performing well. So very proud of them," Kriel concludes, underscoring the unyielding team spirit that drives these Springbok stalwarts.