Vodacom Bulls hooker Johan Grobbelaar says he’s determined to make himself impossible to ignore for Springbok selection, while relishing the fresh influence of coach Johan Ackermann at Loftus, WRITES MORNE ESBEN.
Having already experienced Test rugby with three caps under his belt against Australia, Portugal and Wales, Grobbelaar admits the fire to wear the green and gold again still burns brightly – and he’s putting in the technical work to get there.
“There will always be a desire to play for the Springboks,” Grobbelaar told SARugbymag.co.za.
“Doing your basic work well is non-negotiable. A proper set piece and providing dominance are key when playing Test rugby.”
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The 27-year-old has shifted his focus to the Vodacom URC and wants to let his performances on the field reopen that Bok door. He’s already been a standout player for the Bulls so far, scoring a hat-trick in the season-opener against the Ospreys. Grobbelaar says the Rugby Championship has shown that as a hooker, there needs to be a sharper focus on accuracy at the set-piece, with the lineouts especially being fiercely contested.
“Teams are doing exceptionally well in modern rugby to analyse their opposition,” he explained.
“At lineout time there is very little room for error, and it is important to keep changing your plans weekly to avoid showing too many patterns.”
Fortunately for Grobbelaar, he’s surrounded by some of the best lineout brains in South African rugby – not least Bulls skipper Ruan Nortjé who’ll return to Pretoria following his Rugby Championship duties.
“We are blessed with some talented lineout specialists at the Bulls. It has traditionally been a strength at the club over the years. Ruan is certainly one of the leaders in world rugby when it comes to lineout time, and it is always great to play alongside him.”
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The hooker also praised the early impact of new Bulls coach Johan Ackermann, describing the former Lions boss as “a lot of experience” and someone the players are eager to learn from.
“The last few weeks have been great working with coach Johan. He has a lot of experience, and we’re looking forward to working together during the rest of the season.”
As the Bulls prepare to welcome back their Springboks, Grobbelaar says he can’t wait to reconnect with them – and maybe pick up a few insights over a drink.
“Certainly. The guys have been doing very well at the Boks, and we’re looking forward to having them back at Loftus.”
Photo: PUMA
