KLA returns to the Boks squad after an injury. Image by: SA Rugby Mag
(The Post News)– Kurt-Lee Arendse finally returns to the Springboks for the upcoming match against Japan on Saturday at Wembley Stadium. Arendse has expressed joy over returning to wear the Springbok jersey and reuniting with his dear friend and teammate, Cheslin Kolbe.
Arendse, 29, suffered a hamstring injury during the Springboks’ Rugby Championship loss to Australia at Ellis Park, which kept him out of action for the majority of the season. He is excited to return now that he is fully recovered, especially since Kolbe will be wearing the No. 15 jersey this time.
“I am really happy to be back,” Arendse said. “It is not Cheslin’s first time at fullback; I remember he played there against Ireland in 2022. He’s one of the best in the game, so I’m just excited to share the field with him again.”
After months spent on the sidelines, Arendse says the time away gave him a rare chance to recharge. “Injuries are part of rugby,” he said. “But honestly, I did not mind the break too much. It gave me time to do things around the house and just step back from the game a bit. It was good for me mentally.”
While he was happy to see others make the most of their opportunities, Arendse admits there’s nothing quite like being part of the Bok setup. He expressed that he is pleased to be back with the squad but believes that “the break was needed.” Moreover, he said that even though he wished he was contributing in the Rugby Championship, he was proud of the team’s performance.
His return now adds even more firepower to an already stacked Springbok backline featuring Kolbe, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, and Ethan Hooker.
About the Author
