Springbok fullback Willie le Roux knows the expectations of him in the 2014 Super Rugby season will be higher now that he’s played at Test level for South Africa.

The 24-year-old won 12 caps in 2013 playing for the Boks, often having a great impact, particularly against the Wallabies in Brisbane and Scotland at Murrayfield.

‘If a guy could’ve dreamed of how things should’ve played out, last year is definitely how I would’ve wanted it,’ said Le Roux on the Cheetahs website. ‘I'm just grateful I could do it. I kept on trying hard and the end of the day it all worked out. I could not have asked for a better year.’

Le Roux knows that due to his Springbok experience, his team-mates, critics and opposing teams will anticipate better performances.

‘The guys [opponents] look at an individual's game, they know what you do and how you play. It gets harder every year,’ said Le Roux. ‘Especially if you're a Bok, people expect a little more from you.’

Le Roux also emphasised his dedication to the Cheetahs, saying that he’s exactly where he wants to be.

‘This is why I decided to stay [at the Cheetahs]: the people. I wouldn’t go to anywhere else.’

The Cheetahs’ opening game of the 2014 Super Rugby tournament is against the Lions in Bloemfontein on 15 February.

Photo: Richard Huggard/Getty Images