“No-one Can Replace Duane,” – Jasper Wiese

 

The Springboks built on an encouraging first half in which they held a 21-9 lead over Los Pumas at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium to outscore the visitors three tries to none for the 32-12 win.

During a post-match media conference, Jasper Wiese said the experience since joining the squad has been phenomenal.

“The first thing for me is that you have to put the team first and then as an individual to know your role and to do everything to the best of your ability for the team,” said Wiese.

“At the Springboks, you are playing for something much bigger than yourself.

Wiese, who earned his fourth Test cap on Saturday, admitted that while he had to step into big boots in the absence of Duane Vermeulen - who will return to the field once he has made a full recovery from the ankle surgery that sidelined him for the opening stretch of the season – the experienced Bok No 8, who was named the SA Rugby Player of the Year for 2020, has had an influential presence in the last few weeks.

“No one can replace Duane,” said Wiese.

“He has a presence about him and ever since he joined the camp he has been actively talking to the guys and guiding everyone at training.

“It is big boots to fill, and I don’t know if I will, and I know that he will be massive when he comes back.

“So, I don’t think anyone can fill his boots, I can only try my best.”