Prior to this season, an injury to Damian Willemse opened the door for someone to grab hold of the No 15 jersey at the Springboks.
There was a general expectation that the Springboks might opt for the ‘safety first’ option of veteran Willie le Roux, but the national coaches were more mindful of the fact that they need to start backing the ‘next gen’.
With Aphelele Fassi having produced some world-class form for the Sharks, he was ultimately backed to start in six Tests this season, and he hardly put a foot wrong.
Besides being extremely reliable under the high ball, the 26-year-old was solid on defence, electrifying on attack, and used his powerful left boot to good effect in the Springboks’ calculated kicking game.
Aphelele Fassi enjoyed a breakthrough comeback season for the Springboks
When asked about how he remained positive and waited his turn to work his way into the Springbok team after making his debut in July 2021 against Georgia and only entering this season with three Test caps, Aphelele Fassi said support and honesty from the coaches kept him mentally strong.
“I wouldn’t say I lost hope,” said the talented fullback. “But it certainly gave me glimpses of reality and the way I had to change my mentality, so all credit to the coaches for ensuring that they got me in a better space.
“The Sharks coaches also ensured that I didn’t doubt myself, and they helped me worked on the areas that I lacked in.”
He added: “I do think my game has improved, but in sport nothing is ever perfect and there’s always room for improvement. Personally, my goal will always be to just go out there and play the best.”
The Springboks will now enjoy a well-deserved rest before gathering for a one-week training camp in Jersey – one of the largest of the Channel Islands between England and France.
The plan is that this will allow them to acclimatise to the conditions, while at the same time focussing on their conditioning and preparation for the November tour, when they will face Scotland, England and Wales.
HERE IS A REMINDER OF THE REMAINING FIXTURES IN 2024
Sunday, 10 November: Scotland vs SA (Murrayfield, Edinburgh)
Saturday, 16 November: England vs SA (Twickenham, London)
Saturday, 23 November: Wales vs SA (Principality Stadium, Cardiff
DO YOU THINK THE BOKS WILL GO UNDEFEATED ON THE END-OF-YEAR-TOUR?
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