VIDEO: Kolisi's bold statement on Cameron Hanekom
Yesterday at 10:38 AM
SPOTLIGHT: Springbok captain Siya Kolisi believes Cameron Hanekom has all the potential to become a mainstay in the Rassie Erasmus' squad over the next few years.
The Bulls loose forward will be making his Test debut off the bench against Wales at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on Saturday.
After starring for the Bulls at URC level, fans and pundits are eager to see how the 22-year-old can adapt to the rigours of Test rugby.
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"He must just come and be Cameron Hanekom," said Kolisi at his captain's press conference ahead of Saturday's match.
"We as a team have to make sure we set up the best platform so that he enjoys himself.
"He has been amazing and I've loved watching how explosive he is, how hard he is and how physical he is.
"He can fetch, he can tackle hard and he can run with the ball and he jumps in the line-out.
"He can play eigthman, he can play No.7 and he can play No.6. He has got it all, so I just hope that we all pitch up for him, so he shows who he is.
"I really think he is a special player and he is going to have many years in the Springbok jersey.
"Obviously, that all depends on how hard he keeps on working, but he is an amazing human being.
Kolisi added: "He is always keen to learn and help. I really do enjoy spending time with him and I am looking forward to playing against him as well in the URC.
"Hopefully, it's a great day for him and congratulations to his family too. I am sure they must be proud of him."
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Kolisi knows how intimidating it can be to be a new face in the Bok setup and he has been doing all he can to make things comfortable for the Bulls youngster.
"When I first started, I played with Jean [de Villiers], Victor [Matfield] and Bryan Habana.
"Those were people that I used to watch.
"What is nice about this group is that we want you to be yourself so that you can be your best for the team.
"It's a different environment, but it is really welcoming.
"After the first couple of days, he saw we made jokes and made fun of him and then he returned the favour. I think that made him relax.
"I know he feels at home now and he is comfortable.
"The quicker you can get somebody comfortable, the quicker they can be themselves and the better they will be for the team and I think Cameron knows he is welcome now."
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