Rugby
Rassie Erasmus Shakes Up Springboks Starting XV: Mapimpi and Fassi Deliver
Mapimpi and Fassi eager to make an impact as Springboks prepare for next Rugby Championship test.
After back-to-back resounding victories against Australia, the Springboks Head Coach Rassie Erasmus made several changes to the starting XV which saw the likes of Makazole Mapimpi and Aphelele Fassi get another opportunity to don the green and gold.
Mapimpi's Resilience and Mentorship
Mapimpi, the first Springbok to score in a Rugby World Cup final had to take a backseat after the introduction of Kurt-Lee Arendse and Canan Moodie after the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
"There isn't much that motivates me to continue to play for the Springboks, I enjoy playing for this team. At the end of the day, there isn't much I can do as the coaches pick the side to play. What is nice is that the coaches still see value in me and giving me a chance to play again for the Springboks. What is important is that we get the young players coming through the system which will ensure the future of the Springboks is in good hands", Mapimpi told SportsBoom.com.
"With the current crop of wingers that are there, I always want to give back and assist wherever I can. For myself whether starting or not playing I always prepare and focus on the game that is coming on Saturday,” said Mapimpi.
The last time South Africa won The Rugby Championship was back in 2019. Mapimpi expresses his thoughts on possibly winning The Rugby Championship.
"I think winning The Rugby Championship would mean a lot for the players and management. It's no secret that the level of rugby in the competition has improved since 2019. We do have a big squad and the coach does have options for a matchday 23 and maybe that's what makes us special,” said Mapimpi.
Fassi's Return to the Starting XV
Fassie, who has been in magnificent form in the United Rugby Championship, had to be patient for his opportunity to play again for the Springboks. Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt told the Australian media in the pre-match press conference: "Fassi is a heck of an athlete.”
"I am very happy that the coaches gave me another opportunity and entrusted to wear the 15 jersey especially representing the Springboks. Playing for South Africa is massive for me and my family. When I go out there, I don't plan to disappoint after getting this opportunity,” Fassi told SportsBoom.com.
"The way I prepare for the game, I don't think too much on the game during the week. I speak often to the bigger guys in the team such as Willie [le Roux], Cheslin [Kolbe] and Mapimps [Makazole Mapimpi] being able to work together. For me personally, nothing has changed but just bring more of a physical presence in the game," said Fassi.
Nathan has over a decade of knowledge and experience, both as a former professional sportsperson and journalist. Nathan, a former radio sports presenter and producer is an award-winning community radio sports producer/presenter.