KLEYN LEARNS TO SWITCH OFF
IT WAS only after Jean Kleyn ditched social media that his love of playing rugby returned.
He struggles to pinpoint exactly when that was, but says that the last season and a half have been enjoyable compared to what had come before.
His performances on the pitch back that up, especially since the start of this season.
“It’s a thing about rugby, it’s a fickle game,” said Kleyn. “When it’s going well, it’s going great.
“But if it isn’t going too well, then, yeah, you’d hate to be on the receiving end of a lot of it. I’d leave you to fill in that.
Enjoyed
“There was probably a little phase there when I was thinking, ‘Yeah, this is no craic at all’, but I’d say the last season and a half, definitely last season and coming into this season, I’ve enjoyed it.
“And it’s been phenomenal to be able just to be out on the pitch. Especially this season, it’s just surreal.”
While proud of being selected for Ireland’s World Cup squad in 2019 after becoming eligible under the residency rule, the South African admits he was affected by the commentary that followed, particularly on social media.
“A big thing for me was that I stepped away from any kind of social media,” revealed Kleyn (28). “There was a time around the World Cup that I was getting a fair bit of backlash around my inclusion, which was not really in my hands or my choice at all.
“Nonetheless, I was still delighted to be there and it was an incredible honour.
“But, around then, I started paying attention to what other people were saying about me and thought about me too much. It sort of took the enjoyment out of it for me.
“I stepped away (from social media) then and sort of had a look at myself and my family and what I have, and I realised I don’t really play the game for people who criticise me or are cynical.
“I play the game because I enjoy the game and because my family and friends love it. I’ve just been doing it because of those reasons.
“I discovered my enjoyment again and it’s been superb.”
His form might put Kleyn back in the Ireland conversation but he hasn’t featured during the Andy Farrell at all.
His fifth and last Test cap came against Samoa at the World Cup.
“I’m not too sure where I stand, to be honest with you,” said Kleyn. “I think I’ve one or two more years in me!