With his injury issues behind him, Morné van den Berg is eager to tackle Los Pumas in Argentina on Saturday, and rejoin the arm wrestle for the Springbok No 9 jersey.
The 28-year-old is set for his first Bok appearance of 2026 after recovering from bicep surgery that has kept him sidelined since May.
Speaking on Monday from Buenos Aires ahead of this week’s clash at Estadio José Amalfitani, Van den Berg said the road back had only strengthened his resolve.
“There was a lot of motivation for me,” the Lions scrumhalf told reporters. “I have incredible people on my side who helped me so much. I’m really feeling good.”
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Van den Berg made his Test debut against Portugal in 2024 before earning his first start in the green and gold in Australia, adding four more caps and five tries last year.
His injury came at a time when fellow Bok scrumhalves like Cobus Reinach was also sidelined, while Embrose Papier seized his opportunity with the Vodacom Bulls and, along with Herschel Jantjies, forced his way into the national conversation.
“That type of stuff is completely out of your control,” Van den Berg said. “Players put their hand up throughout the year, and before then they put in effort and they get rewarded.
“I could only face what’s in front of me. I had an opportunity to upskill, get fitter, and work on my mental game to get stronger.
“You don’t always get what you think is best for you, but I did my best to make the most out of my situation,” he added.
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“To come back and just compete, it’s incredible. At the end of the day, you serve the Springboks; whatever it takes to make the Springboks better, when you get into the system, you do it.”
Van den Berg has also taken note of the attacking opportunities being created around the rucks, with Papier and Jantjies making a huge impact against Wales last month.
“There is an emphasis [by referees] on cleaning up the ruck, and when the attacking teams get their chance, they do create space,” he noted.
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“Each defence that you face is a bit different, and credit to those boys scoring some good tries.”
His versatility could also prove valuable for Rassie Erasmus’ plans, having played centre and fullback at school, and the Hoërskool Linden alum is open to adapting if required.
“I’ll do anything the coaches want from me. If they think I’ll be a good fit there, then I’ll definitely do it with passion and pride.
“But at this stage, I haven’t trained there, yet.”
Photo: Floris van Schouwenburg/Gallo Images
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With his injury issues behind him, Morné van den Berg is eager to tackle Los Pumas in Argentina on Saturday, and rejoin the arm wrestle for the Springbok No 9 jersey.
The post ‘Stronger’ Krappies ready to seize control appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
