Aphiwe Dyantyi ready to write his own history
Springbok wing is ready to take on New Zealand in a mouth-watering clash
SOUTH African rugby sensation Aphiwe Dyantyi says it is flattering to be compared to a “living legend” like Bryan Habana. However, he said he’d rather write his own story, his own history.
The Springbok wing has been one of the finds of the 2018 Test season after making his Super Rugby debut earlier this year. He scored two tries against the mighty All Blacks when the Boks shocked the world champions 36-34 in Wellington three weeks ago.
Dyantyi has another chance to show what he is made of this weekend when the Boks host the All Blacks at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria. Dyantyi said he was excited about the challenge but didn’t want to be compared to former Bok star Habana, who also wore the No 11.
“I’ve got another opportunity to play for the Boks this weekend, a chance for me to represent my country, to grow. It’s honestly very flattering that some of you have compared me to Bryan ... he is a legend, he’s done it all, proved himself on the biggest stages year after year.
“Being compared to him is amazing, but I’m Aphiwe and I’m trying to carve my own path, make my own history.
“Not everyone gets a chance to be where I am ... so I want to make sure I make every moment count.”
Retired Habana, who played over 100 Tests for the Boks, said: “He (Dyantyi) needs to create his own legacy, and he’s doing that, and that is exciting.”.
“I’ve had my time. Aphiwe is doing something really special and I really hope he is well-looked after and goes on to break all sorts of records.”
The flying wing has won over fans across South Africa with his speed, step and ability to read the game, and has in a matter of a few Tests become a Bok hero. “He’s actually got very little experience, but he’s just got it at this level. He’s got this uncanny ability to make the most of every opportunity that comes his way. He’s got a fantastic step, he’s quick and his work rate is second to none. He’s just got a quality all-round game.”
Dyantyi also revealed the origin of his already legendary try celebration when he pulls his fingers across his chest. “Growing up, I watched a lot of rugby with my brothers and saw Tana Umaga lead the haka, and I marvelled at that ... there was so much passion there and I kind of took it and made it a part of me.
“But, I also remember watching a movie in Grade 7 about the Kenyan Maasai tribe and how a young boy takes on a lion and wins. I drew a lot of inspiration from that, too.”
Dyantyi said tomorrow’s Test – to conclude the 2018 Rugby Championship – would be massive.
“It’s South Africa against New Zealand ... it doesn’t get bigger than that. New Zealand is a country built on rugby and we take just as much pride in our game here in South Africa. We’re so prepared for it; all we now need to do is play.”
IN THEORY it is a “dead rubber”, but you can absolutely be certain that there will be nothing “dead” about tomorrow’s Rugby Championship clash between the Springboks and the All Blacks in Pretoria.
The All Blacks have already won the Rugby Championship for the third straight season, while the Boks’ victory over the Wallabies last week secured them the second spot.
So there will be no title at stake at Loftus – and yet both teams will have everything to play for.
The Boks are still fresh from one of the most famous victories in their long history – the 36-34 thriller in Wellington, while the All Blacks have been muttering darkly all week about “righting the wrongs” of that defeat.
While it may still be too soon to fully relish the fact that rugby’s finest rivalry is back again, that stunning win in Wellington has done more than enough to suggest that the Boks can start beating the All Blacks on a regular basis again.
Getting Springbok rugby to function like a well-oiled machine again after a few tumultuous seasons was never going to be as easy as just adding a bit of lubricant to a nut. It was always going to be a process.
Securing their first win against New Zealand away since 2009 has injected the team with a large dose of belief. It has also had a galvanising effect on the South African rugby public. There is excitement in the air again. You can sense it and you can feel it. No wonder all the tickets for the game have been snapped up.
Loftus used to be one of the great fortresses of South African rugby, but the All Blacks have now beaten the men in green and gold four successive times at Loftus. It is time to reverse that trend. One thing is for sure: Bok fans will be marching to Pretoria with real hope in their hearts.