Evan Roos is well aware that his recent return to form puts him in the conversation for Springbok selection, but loose forward refuses to think that far ahead.
With untimely season-ending injuries to Jasper Wiese and Elrigh Louw, the Springboks are in the market for a specialist No 8 ahead of their arduous 16-game international season.
And there’s no shortage of contenders: Roos (Stormers), Francke Horn (Lions), Cameron Hanekom (Bulls), Siya Kolisi and Phepsi Buthelezi (Sharks) and Kwagga Smith (TBC) to name a few.
So far in his fledgling Springbok career, Roos has earned seven Test caps between 2022 and 2024 and judging by his recent form for the Stormers in the United Rugby Championship, the dynamic loose forward is well-set to add to his tally.
CAREFUL TO BE DRAWN INTO SPRINGBOK CONVERSATIONS
But Roos, who only made his return to action in January after an extended period on the sidelines due to injury, refuses to be lured into any conversations about hypotheticals. Instead, his sole focus is helping the Stormers earn playoff berth now that he is in a position to do so.
“I was gone long enough that I think people forgot about me, so they’re not marking me like they used to!” Roos told reporters on Tuesday.
“But it’s been a smooth run back with no complications. I think the six months off [last year] did me good. I really came back motivated, rejuvenated and energised to play again,” the Springbok added.
“One of the reasons why I’m doing better than usual is because I’m really enjoying being in the moment, staying in the present, and trying to do my best for the Stormers. I’m not too worried about things in the future. I just control what I can control. The rest is not in my hands, it’s in someone else’s hands.
“Bottom line, I’m just really enjoying playing rugby again. I was gone for half a year and it does put things into perspective. I’m really blessed to be back.”
DO YOU THINK DEON FOURIE WILL PLAY AGAIN THIS YEAR?
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