Lions flank Renzo du Plessis says his stint with the Springboks has given him a clear picture of what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
The 2024 Currie Cup Player of the Year, who made 10 Vodacom URC appearances for the Lions last season, was part of the Boks’ 54-man alignment camp ahead of the 2025 season.
“I learned that you have to work hard on the little things, also off the field,” Du Plessis told Netwerk24. “The Boks work very hard. Everyone works hard – not only on the field, but also off it, in everything they do, from preparation to recovery after training sessions.”
Du Plessis, who was released from the Bok squad before the July Tests, knows he must sharpen every aspect of his game to earn a recall.
“I have to be able to not only play good running rugby, but also defend well. You need to do both because in some games you attack a lot and in others you defend a lot.
“It’s also important that I am consistent in everything I do. The statistics show you whether you’ve done well or not. In the years to come, I have to take care of my body and train hard.”
PREVIEW: Bulls, Sharks headline big Currie Cup weekend
The 23-year-old will start for the Lions against Western Province at Ellis Park on Saturday, after coming off the bench in their 46-5 win over the Sharks last weekend.
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