Jesse: Coach and I decided the move back to fullback would be best
PRETORIA: It was two years ago when Jesse Kriel burst onto the Super Rugby and international scene, and there was talk of him becoming one of the greatest fullbacks South Africa has produced.
But Kriel’s time in the No 15 jersey was curtailed by then Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer who successfully transformed the former Maritzburg College pupil into a lethal outside centre. While Kriel was the talk of the rugby world with his speed and skill at centre, it had a negative impact on his ability as a fullback.
As meteoric as Kriel’s rise has been in the No 13 jersey, he is returning to the place that elevated him to rugby stardom.
It is the Stormers that will have to contain a refreshed and determined Kriel as he is likely to start at fullback for the Bulls at Newlands on Saturday.
And Kriel is excited about the prospect of going back to where it all started.
More so because a leg injury while playing for the Springboks late last year, kept him out of the game for a while.
Kriel feels as though he has another lease on his rugby career playing at fullback even though he will be keeping out another equally talented player in Warrick Gelant.
“I spoke with coach Nollis (Marais) about the move back to fullback from centre and we decided it would be best for my career. He backs me and I back him. But regardless of which position the coach wants me to play, be it at fullback, wing or centre, I will gladly do so,” said Kriel yesterday.
“He has created a wonderful atmosphere and culture in the team and one feels privileged to be part of this unit. I’m looking forward to playing at fullback where I have done a lot of work in practice during the pre-season.”
If the Bulls are to win Saturday’s derby at Newlands and break a five-year losing streak against the Stormers in Cape Town, then they will have to look to the likes of Kriel not only being the catalyst in their attacks but in allowing him to lead from the front.
Kriel made no secret that he is comfortable playing from the back and judging from his performances in pre-season games, there have been enough glimpses to suggest he is back at his best.
“I like to counter attack and be part of the kicking strategy which plays a big role in how the team want to play. I’m really looking forward to playing at fullback,” he said.
The scary part is that Kriel is feeling as strong as he was in his breakout season.
And he is determined to put in better performances for the Bulls as they aim to win a fourth Super Rugby title this year, with all the preparations they have put in for the season ahead.
“I feel that I am at my fittest. I feel really strong and it has been a while since I felt this way. I don’t think one realises how important a pre-season is mentally and physically. I am refreshed to have been part of the planning during the pre-season. We just want to get on the field and play,” said Kriel. “We’ve had a very good pre-season and the guys can’t wait for the big game on the weekend. It’s been long and tough and we are really looking forward to getting on the field.”