Springbok sevens star Kabamba Floors is a frustrated man and has sent a belated message to coach Gert Smal imploring the Stormers coach to give him a chance in the Super 12.
After being axed from the Stormers squad without playing a Super 12 game this season, Floors was sensational for the Springbok sevens side when they won the Singapore Sevens earlier this month.
The dynamic flank scored seven tries in the tournament, including two in the final, to inspire South Africa's 24-19 win over Argentina.
Floors also sparkled at the Hong Kong Sevens, where he scored five tries, and believes he deserves a chance to show his potential in the Super 12.
While the Stormers played the Blues in Auckland on Friday, Floors was preparing to play Vodacom Cup rugby for the Eagles against Eastern Province.
But the 23-year-old who exploded onto the Currie Cup scene last year, scoring seven tries in six Premier Division matches in his debut season in top flight rugby, wants a fair crack of the whip in international rugby and sent this message to the Stormers selectors.
"I was told by Gert Smal that he had very good flanks in his side and that if any of them got injured I would come back into the picture. I have no problem competing with other guys for places, that is what rugby is all about. And that is what frustrates me. All I have ever asked is the opportunity to prove myself," he said.
Floors was originally a part of the Stormers squad, only to be dropped after playing just one game for the side, a pre-season friendly against the Bulls in Dubai.
Floors, at 84kg and 1.75m, may be a victim of Smal's aversion to picking smaller players. Brent Russell was never given a chance at the Stormers on the basis of his size, but has gone on to become the most dangerous attacking fullback in South African rugby with the Sharks.
Two men who have, however, been impressed by Floors' ability are new Springbok Sevens coach Paul Treu and his predecessor, Chester Williams.
"Kabamba may only be 84kg, but he has easily met all of (Springbok coach) Jake White's criteria in strength, speed and fitness," said Treu.
"Over 40m he does 5.19 seconds off the mark, excellent for a flank, and he bench-presses 130kg, which would be good for a tight forward.
"Kabamba was awesome for us in Singapore and Hong Kong. I do not think coaches in South Africa realise his potential and that is a pity. He is one of the most committed and disciplined players in the squad who only gives 100%. And anyone who wants to criticise his ability only has to look at his tests," added Treu.
Williams, who first introduced Floors to sevens rugby last year, echoed Treu's sentiments saying Floors deserved a chance at proving himself at Super 12 level.
"I rate him very highly. Last year he proved in the Currie Cup that he can excel at 15-man rugby. But the sport is all about being given opportunities.
"Right now he just has to hang in there and hopefully next year he will get his chance in the Super 12," said Williams.
"He is very strong and could easily play wing or centre. But as a flank he will steal ball for you also," added the Cats coach.