A word of support from Springbok veteran Duane Vermeulen has boosted Evan Roos as he prepares to make just his second Test appearance for South Africa in the clash against Italy on Saturday. DYLAN JACK reports.
The star of the inaugural Vodacom United Rugby Championship season, and a fan favourite, Roos has had to wait since making his debut against Wales in July to be recall to the Bok matchday squad.
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The 22-year-old went toe-to-toe with Vermeulen, one of his rugby heroes, in the URC and has since been able to share a changeroom and learn from the World Cup winner.
“It wasn’t so much a lesson, but he and I chatted recently and he said that he will always have my back,” said Roos. “That’s massive to hear from someone who is one of your childhood heroes. I immediately called my dad and said, ‘You won’t believe what message I just got!’
“Duane is always willing to help me with the technical stuff, but that little message that he sent me means quite a lot, knowing that someone of his experience and stature backs you.”
Having been named as part of the famous Springbok Bomb Squad, Roos says that while his primary role is as a No 8, he is happy to play wherever he is needed.
“I am trying to focus on playing at No 8 as my main role, but I can cover at blindside flank and, if needed, at openside. I even scrummed at lock today. I am a bit short, but if they need me there, I will scrum.”
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The DHL Stormers star has had to bide his time for a second experience of Test rugby, given that the Springboks have great depth in the back row, which includes Jasper Wiese and Kwagga Smith.
“There are quality players in the No 8 position in the squad. Duane, who isn’t here, is such a role model and I have learned so much from Jasper and Kwagga as well,” said Roos.
“It’s nice that the competition is there, but it’s also a situation where you learn from each other. I am still young, I still have a lot to learn. I am only 22 now, so I am just trying to take everything in.
“If I get the chance, then I will try to make the full use of it and play to the best of my ability. I am always giving my best in training and staying competitive, but that’s the nice thing about this environment, it is competitive, but everyone looks after each other.”
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Photo: Twitter: @Springboks
