Niggle-free Duane ready to dent Wallabies

Standard published on

Veteran Duane Vermeulen is recharged and ready to do whatever it takes to help the Boks defend the World Cup as he prepares to lead the team out in the 2023 Rugby Championship opener against Australia. DYLAN JACK reports.

In what will be his first Test start in almost a year, Vermeulen will captain the Springboks in the clash against Eddie Jones’ Wallabies at his old stomping ground at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

There has been plenty of speculation over Vermeulen’s role with the Springboks both this year and in the future, with reports suggesting that he could lend a hand behind the scenes in a quasi-coaching role, rather than lace up his boots during the World Cup.

MORE: Duane to coach Boks?

However, during a press conference from the team hotel in Pretoria on Friday, Vermeulen reiterated his drive to keep playing for as long as he can.

“I kinda look 32, don’t I,” joked Vermeulen. “I am still keen on playing.

“My thing is, I want to contribute as much as I can. If it’s on the pitch and playing, or if it’s off the pitch supporting the guys and helping the younger guys coming through.

“If I can be a part of this squad, it’s the best feeling in the world for me. That’s my personal view. Everyone has their own view about it.

“I would love to contribute in any way that I can and for as long as I can. If I am a player or if not, that’s up to the guys who make the decisions.”

Vermeulen will be wearing the No 8 jersey for the first time since he faced the Wallabies in Adelaide last August.

Following the 2022 Rugby Championship, the Springbok management opted to give the veteran a break, allowing up-and-comer Evan Roos to make his first Test start during the November tour.

It’s a decision that could very well pay off for both the Boks and Vermeulen, as he said he was in his best condition in years.

“Actually, I am really good. I had a good two years at Ulster. Last year, I didn’t go on the end-of-year tour. They wanted to give younger players like Evan an opportunity to see if they can play.

“I had a good chat with Jacques and they said Ulster were managing me really well. They want to continue with that. It was open and we were very happy with it.

“I don’t have any strapping on my body anymore. For the first time in quite a long while, I am in a good spot and I am feeling confident.”

MORE: Time for PSDT to show his class

Photo: EPA/KIM LUDBROOK

Post by