Grant Williams says the competition among the Sharks scrumhalves and the challenges he has faced so far in his career have helped him become a better player.
Williams enjoyed a sensational performance in the recent loss to Ulster in Belfast.
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He scored a brilliant try and put teammate Marius Louw over to score as he nearly single-handedly helped the Sharks snatch an unlikely comeback victory in Ireland.
It has been a rollercoaster campaign for Williams, who was handed a four-week ban in February for a head clash during the Vodacom United Rugby Championship match against the Vodacom Bulls in Durban.
However, having had to fight his way up the Sharks ranks from club rugby and the SuperSport Rugby Challenge, Williams is used to the challenges of having to prove himself.
“Things didn’t always go my way,” Williams said in an interview with Sport24.
“I persevered and got through it and, at the moment, it’s a nice challenge with myself and Jaden [Hendrikse]. We always help, motivate and push each other.
“It’s healthy competition and I’m enjoying what I’m doing at the moment. It’s about creating the best version of myself.”
Williams’ form was last year rewarded with a call-up to the Springbok squad for the away leg of the Rugby Championship in Australia, after Hendrikse suffered an unfortunate leg injury which ended his season.
With Cobus Reinach ruled out of the upcoming three-Test series against Wales in July and Herschel Jantjies struggling with a hand injury, one or two spots could open up among the Springbok halfbacks.
“There are a lot of scrumhalves in South Africa who are playing well,” Williams said. “If I get the call, I’ll be happy. If not, I won’t throw my toys. I’ll just keep working and improving my game. God has a plan.”
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