Ruan Nortjé embraces innovative tactics in Springboks’ victory over Italy

Springbok lock Ruan Nortjé was effusive in his praise for the rolling mauls executed from open play, which played a pivotal role in the team's decisive victory over Italy this past weekend.

The line-out specialist found himself at the centre of this manufactured strategy, lending his height and agility to what became a focal point of their attacking prowess during the Test match held in the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha.

It is a move the world champions borrowed from the Under-14 B-team of Paul Roos Gymnasium in Stellenbosch, and Nortjé was thrilled that they could execute it almost flawlessly every time they used it. However, it remains to be seen whether the Boks will utilise it again this weekend when they face Georgia in Nelspruit in the final mid-year Test.

“It is always nice to do different things and bring in innovative stuff into the game, it opens up more opportunities,” Nortjé said on Monday.

“We want to develop our game and attack. It enables us to do different things with the ball in hand. It is very exciting, and I am always game for anything innovative and doing something different in a game.”

Nortjé added that it’s a privilege being back in the Bok mix, especially with most of the senior locks fit and firing. He played in his first Test of the season this past weekend against Italy, and alongside captain Salmaan Moerat, they formed a formidable second row, especially in the line-outs.

The Bulls’ captain is ready to grasp the opportunity again on Saturday, should he be selected on Tuesday by head coach Rassie Erasmus to face the Georgians.

“The Mbombela Stadium is one of my favourite places to play. Last year, I was fortunate to face Argentina here, and I won’t forget the atmosphere and the support for the team. The people here really get behind the Boks, so I’ll be very excited if I get an opportunity to play this weekend.

“It is a special environment to be part of, and every player is blessed to be here, so whenever you get the opportunity, you must grab it with both hands.

"There are many capable guys who are not part of the group. So, it is always important to remember how privileged you are to be here.

“Personally, I try to learn as much as I can whenever I’m in the team. We have some of the best locks in the world here with Lood (de Jager), Eben (Etzebeth), Franco (Mostert) and RG (Snyman), and it is a real honour to learn from them and grow my game. I try to represent South Africa to the best of my abilities.”