Tristan Leyds says he is finally coming to terms with the demands of the SVNS series.
The Blitzboks flyhalf will line up in his 15th World Series event at this weekend’s tournament in Perth, carrying added responsibility in the absence of experienced playmakers Selvyn Davids, Dewald Human and Ronald Brown.
Rather than shy away from that pressure, Leyds believes it reflects his growth within the Blitzboks system.
“I have grown as a Blitzboks player over the seasons, and I am coming to grips with the demands of the World Series,” said Leyds. “Even some of my opponents from other teams remarked on my improved fitness.”
The 28-year-old made his Blitzboks debut in Perth in 2024 and returns to the venue eager to build consistency after an injury-interrupted campaign last season.
“I was happy with my debut; it was a good place to run out for my country and represent them and I thought it went well,” he said. “Sadly, I missed out last year due to injury, but I am ready to go and give it my all this weekend again.”
Leyds accepts that stepping into a more prominent playmaking and leadership role brings extra demands, particularly on this trip.
“[Davids, Human and Brown] have been in those roles for five, six, seven years and they have really excelled in that, so stepping into the breach is huge, but I love the new challenge,” said Leyds.
“There were extra leadership duties that came my way especially on this trip, but I would not want it any other way. It is part of growth, and I am all for it.”
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Reflecting on the Blitzboks’ most recent outing in Singapore, Leyds said the lessons were clear.
“It showed how tough we made it for ourselves, with silly mistakes and basically playing against ourselves,” he said. “There will be a mental shift, with ball possession at the top of mind.
“We really can’t play without the ball. We would attack for 30 seconds, give the ball away and then defend for two minutes. That came back to bite us and we can’t repeat that.”
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Despite the challenges, Leyds is confident the squad can deliver in Perth.
“We have the team to get the job done,” he said.
Looking further ahead, Leyds remains motivated by long-term goals in the green and gold.
“On a personal note, I would love to reach 35 tournaments, which is an in-team benchmark, although age might catch-up with me,” he said with a laugh.
“If I look after my body, it certainly is possible and then 50 will be the next target.
“I think another Olympic Games would be nice, yes, but for now, our focus remains on the World Series and then the three World Championship tournaments later in the season.”
Blitzboks’ Pool A fixtures (SA times)
Saturday 7 February
5:58am: vs Spain
9:14am: vs Argentina
12:52pm: vs Fiji
Photo: David van der Sandt/Gallo Images
