Donavan Don says his Currie Cup campaign with Boland made him appreciate being part of the Blitzboks set-up.

The 23-year-old speedster finished as the competition’s top try-scorer, crossing nine times in six matches, and says the experience gave him valuable perspective.

“That turned out to be a great opportunity for me to play fifteens again,” said Don.

“That experience made me realise how lucky and privileged I am to be in a national set-up. Some of those Boland guys have day jobs and have to train after work. I was humbled by seeing such sacrifice and already shared that with our squad in Stellenbosch.

“We simply cannot take anything for granted as the Springbok Sevens – especially as world champions with a target on our backs.”

With the SVNS Cape Town tournament approaching on 6 and 7 December, Don is eager to add to his try-scoring form.

The winger’s electric finish in last year’s final against France was one of the standout moments of the season, helping the Blitzboks secure their first home title since 2015.

“That was an amazing feeling,” he said. “It was the first time I played in Cape Town and, to be honest, the crowd was just something else. We battled to hear our own teammates, such was the noise and encouragement from the crowd.”

A year on, Don has gone from rookie to regular starter – and he knows what comes with that.

“To represent your country is massive, and to play well for your supporters – especially such passionate ones in Cape Town – is a huge responsibility, because you cannot disappoint them.”

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The Blitzboks are already deep into pre-season preparations, with Don emphasising the standards they’ve set for themselves.

“We’ll need to be at our best in every tournament, and the guys realise that. For those lucky enough to be selected for Cape Town, the pressure and expectations will be real – but we wouldn’t want it any other way.”

2025-26 SVNS tournaments:
29-30 November: Dubai
6-7 December: Cape Town
31 January – 1 February: Singapore
7-8 February: Perth
7-8 March: Vancouver
14-15 March: Los Angeles
17-19 April: Hong Kong
29-31 May: Valladolid
5-7 June: Bordeaux

Photo: Danie van der Lith/Gallo Images