‘Kolisi has got what it takes’
BLINDSIDE: SPRINGBOK SKIPPER IS GREAT BALL-CARRIER
Veteran Louw says newcomers Van Staden, Brink destined for great things.
As a veteran Springbok campaigner, Bath flanker Francois Louw is probably in a better position than most to judge whether captain Siya Kolisi is more suited to the blindside flank, or the openside.
Kolisi is set to be named on the blindside today for the Rugby Championship clash against Argentina at Kings Park on Saturday and Louw believes it might be his best position.
“We’ve played together before many times. Siya is just an immensely physical player, but we do play a different kind of game,” said Louw, a veteran of 57 Tests.
“He played the last few Tests as a six but I personally think he is better suited to the role of a ball-carrier. He is really quick, he can take those half-gaps and has a big presence on defence.
“I think our games compliment each other. I’m probably more breakdown-focused and in that way, we can feed off each other.”
Louw has acted as a mentor to the two new flankers in the group – Marco van Staden and Cyle Brink – and believes they are destined for big things.
“The boys are hungry to play and they don’t really step back. I’ve had a few training sessions with them; they are keen to learn and very humble guys.
“They think they deserve to be here but they want to earn their right, which is exactly what you want in the team dynamics.”
Louw said there was no doubt both were great players. He was impressed most by their approach to being involved in the Bok set-up.
“I remember from my first week being in a Bok camp. It is a big moment for you and the way they have gone about it, is just great,” he said. “The way they carried themselves and being hungry to make the best contribution they can, that’s the kind of player you want.”
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