Springbok flyer Kurt-Lee Arendse has credited late Bok legend Chester Williams for his rise to becoming one of South Africa’s most lethal try-scorers.
Arendse, who burst onto the international scene in 2022, has scored 17 tries in 20 Tests and played a key role in the Boks’ 2023 Rugby World Cup triumph.
Reflecting on his journey, the Vodacom Bulls star expressed sadness that Williams, who passed away in 2019, never got to see him wear the Bok jersey.
“It’s sad that he can’t see me play in the Bok jersey. It’s really very sad,” Arendse was quoted by Sunday newspaper Rapport.
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Williams mentored Arendse during his time at the University of the Western Cape. “He gave me the opportunity when no one else did,” said Arendse. “He believed in me more than I believed in myself.
“I never thought my rugby career was over [though] when I was working in a butcher’s shop. After my work day I went to the gym.
“I always wanted to be ready if my chance came and I believed it would come.”
Despite his impressive strike rate, the 28-year-old humbly credits his teammates for his success. “My strike rate is something that happens thanks to the forwards’ hard work,” he explained. “Without them, we will have a difficult day at the office.”
Driven by fierce competition among the Bok wings, Arendse remains focused on doing his best: “Everyone wants to play, but in the end, it is the coach’s decision.”
Photo: Tom Dulat/Getty Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
