Wits produces two of the best for Junior Boks
BRAAMFONTEIN – Gianni Lombard and Wandile Simelane bask in the glory of their talents as they head out to make proud representation as part of the 28-man Junior Springboks squad at the 2017 World Rugby Under 20 Championship in Georgia.
After successfully contesting the World Rugby Under 20 Championship title in 2012, the Junior Springboks will be out for a repeat performance in the 2017 championships when they take to the Avchala rugby field in Tbilisi, Georgia (close to Turkey/Russia) from 31 May.
Welcome additions to the 28-man squad are Wits 1st team rugby and Xerox Golden Lions experts, Wandile Simelane (wing/centre) and Gianni Lombard (fullback), both of whom featured prominently in Wits’ best Varsity Cup season to date. The pair, who are both currently pursuing first-year Bachelor of Arts (BA) general studies at Wits, hope to make a solid impact in their first official outing in the green and gold when the Baby Boks face off against France in Tbilisi on 31 May.
“I got goosebumps when I received the news of the call-up because it was one of the goals that I have been working towards in 2017,” said Lombard. “I was very happy and excited to hear that I had secured a place in the squad.”
The fullback added that he couldn’t have asked for any better an opportunity this early in his professional rugby career, adding, however, that he looks to make a positive contribution to the team.
“I am thankful for the opportunity. Although the main focus for me is staying confident in my abilities and to put in the extra hours, covering all my basic skills in order to stay physically and mentally ready for any situation [is just as important].”
Meanwhile, Simelane, mindful of the pressure that comes with playing on the international stage, said that being selected to play for the Baby Boks is a dream come true. “When I first received news that I was selected, I was very happy and overwhelmed,” he said. “I was extremely proud that all my hard work had paid off. It is a great achievement and a dream come true. I’ve received a lot of advice and wishes from family and friends which I appreciate greatly.
“There is certainly a lot of pressure on us as players as we are going to represent our country, but there’s always pressure in any rugby game or tournament one participates in, so how you deal with the pressure is what’s going to count.” In full agreement with Simelane’s sentiments, Lombard added, “I embrace the pressure because it’s a privilege to be feeling this kind of pressure. But, that said, it is important not to focus on the expectations and the pressure but rather to do my best.”
Details: The Junior Springboks depart for Georgia on 25 May before taking on France, Georgia and Argentina in the pool stages of the World Rugby Under 20 Championship which runs from 31 May to 18 June. https://www.ultimaterugby.com/avchala-stadium
