Springbok desire was always there, says excited Jean-Luc du Preez about Barbarians clash

Utility forward Jean-Luc du Preez last had a taste of Springbok rugby nearly two years ago against Los Pumas in Argentina.

On Saturday, the 14-times-capped Du Preez will get a taste of rugby with the world champions again when he wears the No 8 jersey against the Barbarians in Cape Town in a new-look loose trio for the side.

He last donned the Green-and-Gold in August 2023, but his ambition to play for the side again never faded.

Now, he is ready to embrace the chance to battle against the invitational side at the Cape Town Stadium (5.10pm start).

“That desire was always there,” Du Preez said on Wednesday.

“The Springboks were always at the back of my mind, and I will always tell myself if I play well for the club, something may come my way and to be getting this opportunity again, I am delighted.

“For me, coming in and out of this Bok set-up (over the last few seasons), this is a very important game.

“It’s been tough the last couple of years, and I just want to try and use the opportunity as best as I can. I just want to do my job on Saturday.”

Du Preez said they will have to front up against the likes of Sam Cane and Shannon Frizzell, two of the former All Blacks part of the Barbarians team, and the physicality they will bring.

Then, there is also former Irishman Peter O’Mahony, who will be a menace at the breakdowns.

He reckons they will have a point to prove, especially with the Boks being world champions.

“I think just playing against the Springboks, any player will be up for it. It should be a good match-up.

“They love moving the ball, so we will have to come up with a big defence effort and we must stay on our toes. The focus will be on what we do good, and doing that to the best of our ability.”

After his absence from the squad, Du Preez highlighted the difference attack coach Tony Brown has made since joining the set-up.

He, of course, missed the 2024 season due to his non-selection, but got to experience the influence of Brown for the first time this year.

“We’ve always been labelled as a very conservative team. We kick a lot and play a territory game. With Tony coming in, our attack has stepped up. We’ve scored some brilliant tries that I’ve watched. That is the biggest change for me.

“I would like to bring that physicality when carrying the ball for the side. You won’t be able to do it every single carry and tackle over 80 minutes, but I will try my best to do so.

“It is about finding the balance, though, between the guys (carrying) in the middle and the guys on the edge.

“The guys in the middle working hard to create an opportunity for guys like Fass (Aphelele Fassi) on the edge.

“That is what I try to do (with my carries): to get over the advantage line and stop players (from the opposition) to get over the gain-line. That is what I will try and do this weekend.”