When the Springbok squad was first announced for the Rugby Championship, one notable absence was Evan Roos.
Despite having started two Tests earlier in the year—against Wales and Portugal—Roos didn’t make the cut.
Rising Stars Take the Spotlight
Instead of Roos, Elrigh Louw secured a spot in the squad as an additional loose forward.
Louw has made quite an impression with his performances.
BJ Dixon also had a standout season, validating the trust the Springbok coaches placed in him.
Struggles on the Test Stage
Despite his domestic success, Roos has struggled to replicate that form in international matches.
Over the seven Tests he’s played, he hasn’t quite made the impact expected.
However, it’s clear he’s been given specific feedback on what needs improvement for a return to Springbok selection.
A New Beginning for Roos
In a recent Champions Cup media session in Cape Town, Roos shared that his shoulder surgery recovery is progressing well.
He’s eager for a fresh start when he can return to the field.
“You’re part of the Springboks one moment, and then you’re not.
Watching the team succeed, like beating New Zealand twice, affects you mentally,” Roos reflected, as reported by Rugby365.
“But if you stay grounded and focus on what truly matters in your life, rather than material things, you’re in a better place.”
Focus on Improvement and Enjoyment
Roos also mentioned that gaining more experience at No 8 could help him stay calm in crucial moments and reduce the mistakes and ill-discipline that have sometimes hindered his performance.
“I want to continue improving and refining the technical aspects of my game, and most importantly, enjoy my rugby again,” he said.
He admitted to being too hard on himself over the past year and a half, especially with being dropped from the Bok side just before the World Cup and facing injuries.
His current mindset is to enjoy the game and avoid overthinking.
Looking Ahead
Before the Rugby Championship began, Rassie Erasmus emphasized that Roos is still very much in the picture.
“We’re building squad depth. We know what Evan is capable of and that he has performed well in the past.
He’s comfortable in the Springbok set-up,” Erasmus noted.
What’s next for Roos? It looks like his journey back to the top involves focusing on improvement, enjoying the game, and staying ready for future opportunities.
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