Ben-Jason Dixon admits his latest Springbok call-up came as an unexpected surprise.
But the Stormers loose forward is relishing the chance to prove himself at the highest level once again.
Dixon has been included in Rassie Erasmus’ 36-man Bok squad for their year-end tour, and his last Test was more than a year ago in the Rugby Championship against Argentina in Santiago.
“I’m very excited. I had to wait a while before being brought back into the mix again,” Dixon said from Treviso.
“The call came as a bit of a surprise, to be honest, but I’m glad to be part of that environment again. It’s always a higher level and you’ve got to deliver your best.”
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Dixon missed out on national selection earlier in the year after returning from wrist surgery, and he concedes his form in the URC at the time wasn’t quite where he wanted it to be.
“I missed out earlier this season. I had just returned from a wrist injury which required surgery at the time and was itching to go, but unfortunately I wasn’t selected, which was maybe not a big surprise because I don’t think I had the best URC season up to that point.”
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Now back in top form, and with the Stormers preparing for Saturday’s clash against Benetton in Treviso, Dixon insists he won’t be holding anything back – even with the potential to add to his five Tests on the horizon.
“I will still be giving my 100%, but a better 100% than last week! I’m really looking forward to this match and I certainly won’t be holding back,” he added with a smile.
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Photo: Cole Cruickshank/Gallo Images
The post Dixon caught off-guard by Bok recall appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.