Duane Vermeulen: I’m tired of the French, it’s time for SA again

Duane Vermeulen doesn’t know what his next gig will be – reports say he’s going to Japan – but one thing is certain: he’s done with French rugby.

The 31-year-old, expected to be back in his favoured No 8 jersey for the Springboks against England at Ellis Park on Saturday, didn’t hide his excitement at being involved in South African rugby again.

He spent the last three seasons with European giants Toulon but didn’t renew his contract.

“I feel refreshed. I’m eager to play a part in South African and Bok rugby again,” said Vermeulen on Tuesday.

“I want to play some ball with the guys here again. You grow tired of things up there in Europe, tired of the same French voices in your ears.

“It’s great to be back in my country. Hearing my languages and experiencing our culture again.”

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One of the really interesting insights Vermeulen has gained during his time with Toulon is how independent players actually need to become to be successful that country.

“I learnt a lot about myself in France. I needed to,” he said.

“In the French leagues you pretty much have to focus on yourself. You have to do all your preparation by yourself. You, in many ways, coach yourself.

“Here everything is pretty much worked out for you, you just need to execute.”

Vermeulen is technically unemployed at the moment as his Toulon contract expired at the end of last month but he’s not particularly worried about that.

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“At the moment I’m here to play for the Boks. I don’t really know what is going to happen. We still need to sort that out. I will know by the end of the June series.”