Johannesburg – Centre Damian de Allende says he has been inspired by Springbok captain and teammate Jean de Villiers’ resilience and work ethic during his road to recovery.
De Allende will partner De Villiers in the latter’s first Test start since a serious knee injury last November.
De Villiers suffered what seemed to be a career-ending injury, but has worked hard over the past eight months to give himself the best opportunity to earn his place in the national squad ahead of the Rugby World Cup.
He has done enough to earn a start against Argentina this weekend, and this has motivated De Allende.
“Jean de Villiers has definitely been my role model and biggest mentor,” De Allende told MyPlayers.co.za.
“We spent a lot of time at rehab together, and watching him put in so much work and effort was inspiring. The fact that he’s been able to work his way back into the Springbok team is motivating.
“He’s a great guy, on and off the field. He is always there to offer advice or assistance.”
Meanwhile, De Allende will start a fourth straight match in the No 12 jersey when the Springboks tackle Argentina. He admits that inside centre is his preferred position.
“I do enjoy 12 more than 13,” said De Allende.
“At outside centre, the defensive roles and decision-making is a bit different. But I’m looking to improve all round, so I can adapt where I’m needed.
“I got to test myself against two of the best centres in the world when we played against the All Blacks. Ma’a Nonu and Conrad Smith have been consistent over the years… and I was happy with the way things went. I believe I had a decent game, and I hope to continue improving.” - ANA