LIONS BEWARE OF THE GOLDENUNICORN

Bok star Faf prepares for a memorable summer by tearing up the Prem with his own blend of magic

BY

SALE’S ‘golden unicorn’ Faf de Klerk faces Bath tonight ready to tear up the Premiership on his pathway to a summer he will never forget.

World champions South Africa have not played since winning the Webb Ellis Cup 18 months ago.

They have confirmed two Tests against Georgia at the start of July, which will act as a warm-up for the blockbuster Lions series later that month.

For de Klerk (right, with

World Cup) international rugby restarting provides a huge added incentive to make his mark on the season’s run-in.

He said: “There’s a lot to play for this next few weeks. You need to play good rugby for your club or there’s no way you will be picked for any up and coming games.

“It’s been frustrating but I’ve been fortunate still to be playing for Sale. With not being able to go anywhere the focus has been on enjoying ourselves at the club with our mates.

“A lot of people couldn’t go to work but we were privileged enough to have that bit of freedom and it has kept us sane. It’s mega the Springboks are back and I’m also very happy the games are in South Africa. I’ve been away from home for more than a year and I miss it.”

The passport home will come with the bonus of what is a once-in-a-career event against the Lions. “When I was younger I didn’t really understand the magnitude of the Lions and what it means but it’s massive,” said the 29-year-old. “I’m very lucky to be in the mix when it’s happening. It’s one of the biggest challenges we will face in our careers. Almost like a World Cup.”

The scrum-half will be pivotal to the series – as he is for Sale. Director of rugby Alex Sanderson (left) said: “He’s a rare breed. I can liken him to a golden unicorn – set him free and he’ll do magical things. I’m constantly amazed.

“You see the bounce, the hair, the life but he’s also very reflective. He’s a very mature leader for us.”

Sale are well placed in third to reach the play-offs for the first time in 15 years.