Springbok fullback Aphelele Fassi insists there is no room for comfort or complacency inside the world champions’ camp.
Speaking to Planet Rugby, Fassi made it clear that past achievements carry no guarantees in the Bok environment, where players are constantly challenged to earn their place.
“There is totally no chance of us thinking success will come just because we have had it before, without needing to put the work in,” Fassi said.
Despite South Africa’s dominance on the global stage, Fassi says complacency simply does not exist inside the Bok camp.
“The boys are a million miles from being complacent. The coaches constantly challenge us to become better. No two weeks in camp are the same.”
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For Fassi, that edge is sharpened not only by competition, but by the responsibility that comes with wearing the green and gold – a message consistently reinforced by talismanic captain Siya Kolisi.
“Siya has long reminded us that when you put on the Springbok jersey you not only put it on for yourself, but for the young kid who hopes to wear it one day; for the 65 million people of South Africa whose dreams we carry,” he said.
“He talks about us putting that jersey on to unite South Africa as a whole. We know people face many challenges and we don’t forget that. It gives us something bigger than rugby to play for.”
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That sense of purpose, Fassi believes, is central to why standards never slip, whether players are starting Tests or battling in training.
“As I see it, you’re either playing for the best team in the world, and you want to stay in the best team in the world. Or you’re training against the best team in the world to be able to improve your skills.”
Photo: Johan Orton/Gallo Images
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