Confident Canan has a taste for 13

10/10/2024 09:20 AM

Happy to play across the back three for the Vodacom Bulls, World Cup winner Canan Moodie is applying his learnings with the Springboks at becoming a world-class centre, reports DEVIN HERMANUS.

Moodie is embracing his status as a utility back, transitioning between positions for club and country. Having played wing, centre and fullback in the 2024 Currie Cup and early rounds of the 2024-25 Vodacom URC, the 21-year-old remains confident in his versatility but foresees a midfield role as his long-term calling.

Speaking in a Bulls conference on Thursday from Wales, where the Bulls are preparing to face the Ospreys this week, Moodie reflected on his growth at outside centre, especially after playing with seasoned Boks like Jesse Kriel and Lukhanyo Am.

"I played centre at school and it's a position I love to play," Moodie told reporters. "I got a taste of it at the World Cup and in a few games with the Springboks so I'm fairly comfortable with it now playing centre for the Bulls.

“I’ve learned a lot from Jesse and Lukhanyo… That's just helped me grow at centre, and hopefully I continue that with the Bulls.”

“It's tough switching between centre and wing, and fullback, but I think in the week you prepare accordingly,” he added. “I'm young so it doesn't matter where I play, I'm just fortunate to get opportunities.

“A lot of players have started out on the wing and went to centre, like [former Bok] Jaque Fourie, Lionel Mapoe at the Bulls. I don't mind at the early stages of my career playing wherever; in the later stages you want to pick one position and figure that out and make sure that's your baby."

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He has even adapted his skills for fullback when required, working on kicking and high-ball techniques to do the job. "At fullback you kick a bit more than centre or wing, so normally I prepare as I need to. If I'm chosen at fullback, then kicking and high balls are my priority."

One area that Moodie has truly excelled in is his defence. The former Junior Springbok has developed a reputation for his tough tackling, a skill honed since his school days.

"From school I wasn't the biggest kid, I was a small, scrawny little centre and guys were always coming at me so I had to toughen up to make my hits," the Boland Landbou prodigy shared. "It's something I work hard on."

The 11-Test Moodie's 2024 season hasn't been without challenges. Injuries have disrupted his momentum after the high of winning the 2023 Rugby World Cup with the Boks in France.

Yet, he has taken the setbacks in stride, determined to grow from the experience. "It's not been the easiest of years for me, with injuries… It's been about learning from this year as much as I can, and through adversity pushing through… making sure I'm a better player after this year."

As the Herd gears up for their first game of a three-week tour to Europe on Saturday, Moodie is confident that Jake White’s charges can carry their winning momentum forward.

"We’re unbeaten so far in the competition… so very confident about what we can do on tour. Obviously, it's different circumstances… It's adapting to that and making sure you play your best rugby possible," Moodie said.

"Ospreys are a good side… but I think we have a gameplan and are prepared for what's to come on Saturday."

Photo: Gallo Images

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