Robert Du Preez’s extended run at flyhalf for Western Province in the Currie Cup will benefit the Stormers in 2016.
“I’m really excited about Rob,” WP attack coach Dawie Snyman said of the Kearsney College old boy who is expected to be named to his third consecutive start for the non-televised clash against the Pumas at Newlands on Saturday (kick-off 3.30pm).
Two weeks ago, Kurt Coleman was ruled out with a calf complaint that has yet to be resolved and Du Preez, 22, was thrust in front of the steering wheel for the road trip to Durban. Since then, Province have scored 66 points and seven tries combined in wins against the Sharks and Blue Bulls.
“Going up to the Sharks for his first Currie Cup start in that position, I thought Rob did really well,” said Snyman. “He really took control and made good decisions on the field, and he did the same back at Newlands (against the Bulls) in a high-pressure game.”
Pressure to settle on a starting flyhalf is what awaits incoming Stormers coach Eddie Jones. With goal-kicking ace Demetri Catrakilis off to French club Montpellier after the domestic championship, and attempts to sign Lions flyhalf Marnitz Boshoff believed to have failed, Jones’ flyhalf plans will hinge on one of Coleman, Du Preez, or junior candidates Jean-Luc du Plessis and Ryno Eksteen, proving they’re up to the job.
All four are talented playmakers, but only Coleman is capable of dispensing Currie Cup and Super Rugby advice based on experience.
The status quo would have remained unchanged had Coleman, who started eight times for the Stormers over the past two years, hogged the blue-and-white striped No 10 jersey this season.
Du Preez’s elevation into a starting role in the Currie Cup is certain to provide at least some insight into his readiness for top-tier rugby and also has the potential to create a healthy competition for the Stormers’ flyhalf vacancy.
A 73-percent goal-kicking ratio will count against Du Preez, but Snyman has been impressed by his character.
“Rob is a confidence player and, even if he makes one or two mistakes, he doesn’t drop his head or go into a negative spiral, he just gets back on to the horse and makes sure he executes the next thing he has to do,” said the WP attack coach.
“He’s physical, he’s got a good passing game, he can take it to the line and get players into space, and he gets good distance on his kicks.
“But one of Rob’s main strengths is his organisational skills – he’s a great communicator. He organises the forwards well and actually listens to guys like Dillyn Leyds and Cheslin Kolbe on the outside. So, if they’re calling for the ball and they want specific options to be played, Rob is a guy that makes sure he gets the info through to the scrumhalf and gets these guys into space.”
Jano Vermaak has been tipped to take over at scrumhalf for Province this week and his experience and expertise will simplify Du Preez’s job and equip the defending champions with a complementary halfback duo.
“Jano is definitely showing his potential,” said Snyman, referring to the three-Test Springbok’s incisive, blindside break from a maul to score his first try for Province during last week’s win against the Bulls.
“He’s quick to the breakdown, he’s got a good snipe, he organises well and he’s also got a good kicking game.” - Cape Argus