The last time Jean-Luc du Preez started a Test for the Springboks was way back on 9 June 2018, while his most recent international appearance was off the bench against Argentina in 2023.
Although he has 14 Test caps to his name, the 30-year-old former schoolboy prodigy has endured a stop-start career for the Springboks despite boasting undeniable talent.
Whatever the case may be, Du Preez now has a golden opportunity to truly stake a claim for regular selection this season after being backed to start at No 8.
“My first Test for seven years – that speaks for itself,” said Du Preez. “I’d just like to do my best for the team and get us on the front foot and hopefully we can do a good job on Saturday.
“I’ve been thinking quite a bit this week because of the result last week. There is a lot of pressure on us and for me to come in, not having started in seven years – I’ve just tried not thinking about the outside noise too much. Just trying to get my prep right to do a proper job.”
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus makes his position
Erasmus also explained this week that he was confident and comfortable with Du Preez taking this next step.
“We believe that the guys we have here are doing the job for us, and it is difficult to keep the squad that big.
“I think everyone here (in the press conference room) has asked me in the past when JL (Jean-Luc) is going to get a proper chance, so it is his chance now, and hopefully it goes well.”
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