Willemse relishes Loftus return as Springbok comeback nears

Damian Willemse admits he is nervous ahead of his first match for the Springboks since the 2023 World Cup final, but as he returns to Loftus Versfeld, he carries the comforting memory of arguably his finest hour in a Bok jersey — at the same venue.

It was in 2022, and a rusty South African side were on the verge of being upset by Wales. But when Willemse moved to flyhalf for Elton Jantjies in the second half, the game turned. With Handré Pollard-like composure, Willemse slotted the match-winning penalty. The Boks edged it 32-29.

"That is a good memory," Willemse smiled.

"It was a scary day for us at Loftus. We did well to come back in the second half."

The fullback enjoyed an excellent run across 2022 and 2023, but injuries derailed his momentum, and he has had little game time for the Stormers and none yet for the Boks this year. A recent suspension in the United Rugby Championship, shortly after recovering from a hand injury, added to his frustration.

"I am very happy to be healthy and back in the Bok squad," Willemse told a press conference. "It has been a difficult two years — injuries and then, lately, the suspension.

"I'm pleased to have another shot. I'm excited but a bit nervous. I have not played since the World Cup final. I need to get into the game and do my primary job at fullback.

"I'm nervous, but the guys in the team and the coaching staff give me security," he added. "As soon as we sing the national anthem, I’ll start feeling at home. I’ll get my first touch and get into it.

"You are playing for the national team, and that brings added pressure, but that’s part of it, and you look forward to the challenge."

It will surely be like riding a bike for the 27-year-old, who has 39 Test caps to his name. And as he says, he’s surrounded by world-class players.

"We have classy, experienced outside backs that will look after me," he smiled.

Chief among them is the midfield pairing of Jesse Kriel and Damian de Allende — arguably the best centre duo in the game.

"They are both exceptional players, and their combination has grown," Willemse said.

"They are strong leaders. We know the value they add to the group. A guy like Jesse has the opportunity to lead the team, and that is a reward for how much work he has put into evolving his game."

Willemse also praised André Esterhuizen’s contribution on the flank against the Barbarians last week.

"It was awesome to see that. We’ve witnessed the work he’s put in at training to become this hybrid player. It didn’t just happen — he worked hard and did a very good job getting stuck in with the big boys. It was exciting to see that development, but I’m happy at the back!"