The Springbok veteran who is setting the pace at his new club
Springbok star Willie le Roux looks on after the Rugby World Cup final.
Springboks veteran Willie le Roux has hit the ground running in Pretoria, with the Bulls camp impressed by the 34-year-old’s fitness.
Le Roux began training with the Bulls this week after having signed before the Rugby World Cup from Toyota Verblitz. He was joined by other World Cup-winning stars including Kurt-Lee Arendse, Canan Moodie and Marco van Staden.
Builds confidence
Electric centre Stedman Gans admits since the Springboks returned to camp the level of training has increased with Le Roux setting the standard after a good break from the game.
“We are very happy to have them back,” Gans said. “They bring heaps of experience and excitement. I think a few of them could be involved this weekend as well. It just builds the confidence of the team to have that calibre of players back with us.”
“Willie has been running the fastest at training this week,” Gans said with a laugh. “The guys coming back from the tour are still feeling a bit of the flight home. Willie has been here in SA, so he’s fresh and he’s been outpacing us.”
Push for starting spots
The Bulls boast strong depth in their squad making the fight for a starting role difficult. Gans knows he has to be at his best to earn his spot especially since the Springboks have returned.
“Since the beginning of the season, with the squad we have, it’s been a very difficult squad to make the team for the weekend,” Gans said. “You have to be at your best every single day.
“My focus has always been on my own performance,” Gans added. “So I don’t necessarily look at who is in the squad and competing for the same position.
“I just see it as when I get the opportunity in a game or training to do my best, if it’s good enough, then coaches will tell you and select you. If it’s not, they will tell you what to work on.”
The Bulls play their next three games in all competitions at home as they look to build on a decent start to their season.
READ MORE: The one Springbok teammate Handre Pollard ‘can’t praise enough’
