Edwill van der Merwe hopes his Man of the Match outing on debut for the Springboks is the first of many, as Vincent Koch expects “good things” from the world champs in 2024.
The Boks hinted at a new attacking approach for the next World Cup cycle as Rassie Erasmus’ charges opened their 2024 campaign with a 41-13 victory against Wales at Twickenham on Saturday.
There was also an evolution in personnel with four uncapped players making their bows, and Van der Merwe crowned his day with a 40-metre sprint to score under the posts in the 75th minute.
It was an outrageous score, as the winger picked up the ball at a centre-field ruck before evading two tacklers and streaking away to dot down under the crossbar.
“It was very humbling to make my first start for the Springboks and to get Man of the Match,” Van der Merwe was quoted post-match in London.
“The way we prepared the last two weeks has given me a lot of confidence in the system, and I could just be myself. There was no real nervousness and I could just go out there and be Edwill.
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“The guys around me – Jesse [Kriel], Mapimps [Makazole Mapimpi] – gave me a lot of confidence. They were always chatting to me and it made my job a lot easier.
“It was a memorable first start for South Africa, and hopefully not the last.”
On his solo touchdown, Van der Merwe added: “I couldn’t believe it when I went through… crossing the tryline I was overcome with emotion, and I took a moment to take it all in. It was incredibly special.”
Erasmus said Van der Merwe’s experience had helped the Lions flyer make the seamless step up to Test rugby.
“Edwill definitely looked very comfortable. He’s 28. He maybe slotted in a little bit easier than some of the other guys. I think he deserves everything that comes his way now,” the Bok boss explained.
Koch made his 50th appearance in the green and gold jersey on Saturday, and the two-time World Cup-winning prop can’t wait for the much-anticipated two-Test July series against Ireland in the Republic.
“It was very special getting to play my 50th game, a dream come true. I’m very proud of the boys for showing real character in the second half and we’re glad to get the win,” he said.
“It wasn’t perfect but there was glimpses of good things and we can really build on that, and the young guys putting up their hands is a great sign for SA rugby. I’m looking forward to the Irish Tests.”
Photo: @Springboks/Twitter
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
