Springbok wing Edwill van der Merwe says facing the Wallabies on Saturday is the biggest challenge of his Test career so far.
The 28-year-old speedster, who has scored five tries in three Tests against Wales, Italy and Georgia, will start in place of Cheslin Kolbe at Ellis Park as the double World Cup-winner continues to work his way back from a niggle.
While Van der Merwe’s finishing ability has grabbed headlines, he says his focus this week is on execution and decision-making rather than adding to his try tally.
“I’m very excited about the opportunity to play against Australia and to take the field in a Test for the first time at Ellis Park,” said the former Lions star, who has signed for the Sharks. “This is a new challenge to improve my game.
“There’s no pressure on me to score tries, but to make the right decisions on attack and defence, especially against stronger, more experienced teams,” he added.
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Van der Merwe says staying in the Bok squad is as tough as getting there in the first place.
“Each day you go onto the field, training is a challenge and an opportunity to improve,” he explained. “The key for me is to say that with each session I got better.”
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Looking ahead to Saturday, he expects a fierce contest.
“I’ve always watched and heard about the rivalry between the teams, so it’s going to be special.
“They’re a big, physical team who have improved a lot, and I expect the breakdown to be a focus point in the Test.”
Photo: Anton Geyser/Gallo Images
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