Willemse relishes Loftus return as Springbok comeback nears

DAMIAN Willemse admits he is nervous ahead of his first match for the Springboks since the 2023 World Cup final, but as he returns to Loftus Versfeld, he carries the comforting memory of arguably his finest hour in a Bok jersey — at the same venue.

- MIKE GREENAWAY

It was in 2022, and a rusty South African side were on the verge of being upset by Wales. But when Willemse moved to flyhalf for Elton Jantjies in the second half, the game turned. With Handré Pollard-like composure, Willemse slotted the match-winning penalty. The Boks edged it 32-29.

“That is a good memory,” Willemse smiled.

“It was a scary day for us at Loftus. We did well to come back in the second half.”

The fullback enjoyed an excellent run across 2022 and 2023, but injuries derailed his momentum, and he has had little game time for the Stormers and none yet for the Boks this year. A recent suspension in the United Rugby Championship, shortly after recovering from a hand injury, added to his frustration.