Vincent Tshituka says every effort is being made to secure his South African citizenship in order to make him eligible for Springbok selection.
The Lions flank, who was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was speaking to Sport24 in a wide-ranging interview which also touched on his goal of representing South Africa.
The 23-year-old has been in red-hot form in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, scooping an incredible three Man of the Match awards.
Tshituka says his eligibility issues will likely rule him out for the upcoming national alignment camps, but he appreciates Bok coach Jacques Nienaber’s “open-door policy” regarding his performance – and future.
“[Appyling for permanent citizenship] does make things a bit difficult but Jacques [Nienaber] has always made his an open-door policy for me to come with questions, and he is always ready to offer me advice and give tips,” Tshituka said.
“He has shared with me in terms of what I can build on within my game and where I can grow. The entire management has been approachable and have definitely kept an eye on me. They have been really good to me, and I have been in talks with them.
“The citizenship issue as it currently stands puts us at a standstill, but I’m OK with that because it’s one step at a time and I’m fighting my way there. I have people that I’m working with to fight for my citizenship,” he added.
“That’s about it right now and we’ll take it one day at a time. When it’s sorted out it will be an honour to be eligible to be selected. I was born in DRC but have essentially been in SA my entire life.
“[But] just because you’re eligible doesn’t mean you’ll become a Springbok, but I want the opportunity to get to join the ranks.”
Get that man a SA passport! https://t.co/ECs29tIa1r
— Mark Keohane (@mark_keohane) April 2, 2022
