Springbok Elrigh answered some burning questions surrounding fledgling career, the challenges that come with being a professional sportsman, meeting his heroes and crafting a legacy.
Q&A WITH RISING SPRINGBOK STAR
Why rugby?
It was the first sport I got to love and learn to play. As a boy I fell in love with the sport and the culture. Also, it is the only sport I am good at!
Tell us about what attracted you to join the Bulls?
I grew up in Vereeniging and my dad would bring me to games at Loftus as we were both fans. So playing here has always been my dream.
You were named in the latest Springbok squad to play in the Rugby Championship – each time a new
Boks squad is announced how do you get to hear about it – do you get a call from the coach?
Yes, I got a phone call telling me I needed to get my Visa sorted. Every rugby player strives for that phone call, and it never gets old!
You played flank and eighth-man – what do you enjoy about the positions?
The roles are quite similar but with the Bulls game plan playing eight is more of a structured role, while at seven you are given more freedom.
What skills are required to be a world class Springbok loose forward?
Physicality, agility and being an all-rounder. It is also about how you see the game; you play as a forward but must see almost like a back. Which is important as you are the link between the two.
Which team was the most challenging to play against this season and why?
In South Africa, the Stormers. It is a massive rivalry. Then in the United Rugby Championship, it is Leinster who have been the benchmark for success for a long time. So, it good we are now able to compete with and even beat them.
When you watch rugby on tv are you just a fan or are you at work studying other teams and rival players?
It is difficult to watch as a fan. As players we know more about what is going on, so we watch with a different view. We analyse more than we watch.
Do you analyse your own performances after each match, if so, what does that involve?
Our coaches want us to be students of the game, so we watch clips to pick up new ideas on how to play against our opponents.
Which boots do you play in and why do they work for you?
PUMA Ultra Ultimate, it is very light and a very versatile boot which works for a back row forward. I can also put in longer studs if needed.
The Bulls have a very a rich legacy, so which former Springbok players would you have loved to have played alongside?
Victor Matfield, Bakkies Botha and Pierre Spies. They were the big stars when I was growing up.
How important is your own legacy?
I want to win many trophies in a Bulls jersey. But it is about more than being a good player. When I was younger, Victor Matfield stopped and let me get a photo with him. That was very special for me. I would like to have that same impact on a little boys and girls who are fans of the Bulls.
Tells us about your golf and why you play a game that is so frustrating even to the best players?
I took up golf too late! What I love about it is even if you hit a bad shot, you are excited to see if you can improve with the next one. It is also lekker, quite social. Something I can enjoy with friends and family.
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