CAPE TOWN – Loose forward Sikhumbuzo Notshe says grabbing the opportunities that come his way is one of the aspects that’ll contribute to his growth.
Notshe - who has played in five Tests - made his first start for the Boks in their 23-12 win over Australia.
“I haven’t played a lot of rugby at this level, so there’s a lot of growth there. What I can do is watch the tapes and spot the 'work-ons'. I believe I’m not the finished product and I will never be.”
“I need to keep improving as a player and, importantly, I have to grab my opportunities.”
The skillful back rower also said that while the game played in front of a packed Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium was naturally a nerve-wracking and tough experience, he managed to adapt.
Sikhumbuzo Notshe during a Springboks training session at Jonsson Kings Park in Durban.Photo: Steve Haag/BackpagePix
“It was obviously nerve-wracking out there, but I give credit to the coaching staff and the forward pack for backing me and making my job simple,” he said.
“It was much different. Currie Cup is not international standard, and I think everyone would agree.
“By the 30th minute the lungs weren’t holding up anymore, so it was tough,” he said.
“But I managed to dig a bit deeper there and carry myself around the park.”