Ntuthuko Mchunu has emphasised his desire to write his own story as the Springbok prop returns to the venue of his Test debut to tackle Portugal on Saturday.
Mchunu is set to earn his third Test cap for a heavily changed Springbok lineup in the historic first-ever clash with Portugal in Bloemfonten.
The 25-year-old made his debut for the Springboks at the Toyota Stadium in the second Test against Wales in 2022, which the visitors won 13-12.
It has taken him two years to earn a recall to the squad, as he earned his second cap in the opening Test of the year, also against Wales, this coming out on top as the Springboks claimed a 41-13 victory.
Mchunu made his first-class debut for the Sharks in 2021 and caught the eye with a magnificent 50-metre run for a try. Since then, the youngster has been compared to Beast Mtawarira, as the two players transitioned from the back row to loosehead prop early in their careers.
However, when asked about the comparisons with the World Cup winner, Mchunu said that he wants to write his own name in Bok folklore.
“It’s been said a lot but I think Beast in his own right has set a path in South Africa for anyone who plays in a similar position and has set the bar really high with his accolades,” he said.
“So if I am halfway there it will be really good but I want to be my own player. I enjoy running with the ball, I love scrumming and defending.
“So I want to be a player in my own way. Obviously, I am honoured to be almost put together with the likeness of someone who has done so well for the country.
“It’s good but it doesn’t really do anything.
“I want to be Ntuthuko more than anything.”
Photo: Paul Harding/Gallo Images
The post Mchunu to release the beast on Portugal appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Src: sarugbymag.co.za
