Jean-Luc du Preez is still chasing his Springbok dream, the utility forward hoping that strong performances for the Sale Sharks this season will earn him a Test recall.
Although not currently in Rassie Erasmus’ Bok squad, the 29-year-old remains optimistic about his future. The 14-Test Du Preez, who can play lock or in the back row, was part of last year’s 40-man training squad in the buildup to the Rugby World Cup.
Plying his trade at English Premiership club Sale alongside his twin Dan and older brother Rob, Jean-Luc nows the competition for spots in the Bok pack is fierce.
“It’s always at the back of my mind,” Du Preez told Planet Rugby. “For now, I want to play well for Sale and hopefully, if something comes from that, then I can reap the rewards.
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“The loose forward depth in South Africa is unreal, so trying to get into that squad is really tough.
“I just need to do my best for Sale and hopefully something will come of it.”
Reflecting on his Bok debut in 2016, Du Preez said, “That was definitely the proudest moment of my career thus far. I think I only got two minutes, but it was so special.”
The former Sharks bruiser remains an avid supporter of the world champion Boks and followed their recent loss to Los Pumas in Argentina.
“The Springboks are a hard team to beat,” he noted. “Hopefully, this weekend they can get the win and secure the Rugby Championship title.”
Photo: Juan Jose Gasparini/Gallo Images
The post Forgotten Bok hopes ‘something will come’ appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Src: sarugbymag.co.za
