Blitzbok Du Preez enjoying Currie Cup

Springbok Sevens playmaker Branco du Preez is loving the transition into the 15-a-side game and playing for the Golden Lions in the Currie Cup this season.

Du Preez is one of the several Sevens players having a go at 15s this season. Others include Ruhan Nel, Seabelo Senatla, Werner Kok (all Western Province), Rosko Specman, Cecil Afrika, Chris Dry (all Free State Cheetahs) and Kwagga Smith (Lions).

Du Preez is playing scrum-half and he’s enjoying the experience of provincial rugby after a seven-year absence.

“I think the last time I played provincial 15s rugby was at U21 level at the Bulls in 2010! So yes, it’s been a while,” he told MyPlayers. 

“The opportunity to play for the Lions came my way through my agent and the union. I saw it as an exciting opportunity, especially considering the successful and expansive brand of rugby the Lions have shown at Super Rugby and Currie Cup level in recent seasons.”

Du Preez added that he feels very grateful to have been given some game time  over the past two weeks.

“I’ve been surprised to receive so much game time since arriving at the Lions. I played about 10 minutes in my first game and almost 20 minutes last weekend,” he said.

“The guys have welcomed me on and off the field, which helped me settle in quite quickly.

“Playing scrumhalf in 15s is very different compared to Sevens. In 15s rugby, you don’t have much space and your main focus is pass accuracy and service delivery from the rucks and set-pieces.

“The Lions coaches have worked really hard to prepare for the Currie Cup and I want to make a positive contribution to the team’s aspirations.”

Du Preez admitted that he’s looking forward to an exciting Sevens season ahead.

“Playing 15s is great as it keeps me active during the off-season,” he added.

“This will help as we have a busy sevens schedule over the next year, which includes the World Series, World Cup and Commonwealth Games.

“After winning the World Series title, we want to do well as defending champions and bring more success back home to South Africa.

“It’s going to be a tough challenge for the players as we’ll be playing week in and week out, but the coaches have plans in place to ensure our bodies are managed properly throughout the season.”