Happy to play across the back three for the Vodacom Bulls, World Cup winner Canan Moodie is applying his learnings with the Springboks at becoming a world-class centre, reports DEVIN HERMANUS.
Moodie is embracing his role as utility back, transitioning between positions for club and country. Having played a mix of wing and centre for the Bulls in the 2024 Currie Cup and Vodacom URC, the 21-year-old remains confident in his versatility but foresees centre as his long-term calling.
Speaking in a Bulls conference on Thursday from Wales, where the Herd are preparing to face the Ospreys this week, Moodie reflected on his growing experience at centre, especially after learning from seasoned Boks like Jesse Kriel and Lukhanyo Am.
“I played centre at school and it’s a position I love to play,” the Boland Agricultural High prodigy told reporters. “I got a taste of it at the World Cup and in a few games with the Springboks so I’m fairly comfortable with it now playing centre for the Bulls.
“I’ve learned a lot from Jesse and Lukhanyo… That’s just helped me grow at centre, and hopefully I continue that with the Bulls.”
Moodie has shown his adaptability, featuring even at fullback, and is determined to excel wherever he’s needed. “It’s tough switching between centre and wing, and fullback, but I think in the week you prepare accordingly. I’m young so it doesn’t matter where I play, I’m just fortunate to get opportunities.
“A lot of players have started out on the wing and went to centre, like [former Bok] Jaque Fourie, Lionel Mapoe at the Bulls. I don’t mind at the early stages of my career playing wherever; in the later stages you want to pick one position and figure that out and make sure that’s your baby.”
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He has even adapted his skills for fullback when required, working on kicking and high-ball techniques to fit the role. “At fullback you kick a bit more than centre or wing, so normally I prepare as I need to. If I’m chosen at fullback, then kicking and high balls are my priority.”
One area that Moodie has truly excelled in is his defence. The rangy back has developed a reputation for his tough tackling, a skill honed since his school days.
“From school I wasn’t the biggest kid, I was a small scrawny little centre and guys were always coming at me so I had to toughen up to make my hits,” he shared. “It’s something I work hard on.”
Moodie’s 2024 season hasn’t been without challenges. Injuries have disrupted his momentum after the high of winning the 2023 Rugby World Cup with the Boks in France.
Yet, Moodie has taken the setbacks in stride, determined to grow from the experience. “It’s not been the easiest of years for me, with injuries… It’s been about learning from this year as much as I can, and through adversity pushing through… making sure I’m a better player after this year.”
As Jake White’s charges gear up for their first game of a three-week tour to Europe on Saturday, Moodie is confident that the team can carry their winning momentum forward.
“We’re unbeaten so far in the competition… so very confident about what we can do on tour. Obviously, it’s different circumstances… It’s adapting to that and making sure you play your best rugby possible,” Moodie said.
“Ospreys are a good side… but I think we have a gameplan and are prepared for what’s to come on Saturday.”
Photo: Gallo Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
