Springbok utility back Quan Horn has revealed he was pre-warned that he might be needed at flyhalf against Scotland, writes CLINTON VAN DER BERG.
He was nevertheless caught in what he called “the cauldron” of taking over the No 10 jersey mid-match.
“We chatted during the week about which duties I needed to cover, and I was ready for the call,” Horn said. “I was just grateful once again for the opportunity to represent the Springboks.”
Asked what the coaching staff want to see as he develops into a long-term utility option, Horn pointed to versatility as the priority.
“If I can cover flyhalf and fullback for the Springboks, I think that’s good for the team,” he said, adding that being able to cover multiple positions is increasingly valued at Test level.
Horn credited veteran playmaker Handré Pollard with easing his transition onto the field.
“He made me feel very comfortable,” Horn said. “He made everything so easy in the first half, and then I could step up and do my best.”
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Horn said Pollard talked him through the attacking options available before kick-off, adding that his composure “gives a lot of confidence on the field”.
With Damian Willemse and Pollard both effectively playmakers alongside him, Horn dismissed suggestions that South Africa risked having “too many cooks” in the backline.
“There’s a big respect between the players,” he said. “Each of them knows the job they need to do first, and if you’re on the front foot, everyone can express themselves.”
Horn also confirmed he had no advance guarantee of finishing the match at flyhalf once the incumbent No 10 was fit to return.
“There were plans during the week in case a player got injured,” he said. “I was prepared to cover the position I was meant to cover.”
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He called being kept on for the remainder of the game “a massive confidence booster”.
The performance adds further weight to South Africa’s growing reputation for selection depth, with Horn the latest bench option to deliver under pressure in a genuine Test-match crisis.
Photo: Johan Rynners/Getty Images
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Springbok utility back Quan Horn has revealed he was pre-warned that he might be needed at flyhalf against Scotland.
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