No 8 Jasper Wiese has embraced his role as a physical enforcer for the Springboks, whether as a starter or a member of the Bomb Squad.
Speaking to Sunday newspaper Rapport in the buildup to Saturday’s win against England in London, Wiese highlighted his no-nonsense approach to dominating opponents and the collective ethos of the Springboks.
“Rugby is a contact sport. Either you dominate or you are dominated,” the 33-Test Wiese said. “Every guy on this team has to have a little vark [pig] in him.
“It’s about giving your all so the guy next to you knows he can count on you.”
Wiese praised his loose-forward partners, Siya Kolisi and Pieter-Steph du Toit, for their diverse contributions: “Siya is incredible around the ball, both on defence and as a carrier. Pieter-Steph’s work ethic is unmatched – he literally never gives up.
“My role is different; I work in midfield with the tight forwards to gain momentum when things get tough.”
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Following Duane Vermeulen’s retirement, the 29-year-old Wiese now leads as the senior No 8 but insists the team-first mindset defines the Boks.
“It’s not about the jersey being yours. As Coach Rassie [Erasmus] said, you serve – this week it’s your turn, next week it’s someone else’s,” he explained.
Reflecting on his Bomb Squad role since the 2023 Rugby World Cup final, Wiese noted its importance. “It doesn’t matter if you start or finish; the bench must do as well or better. That’s what makes it special – everyone knows their role.”
Looking ahead, the Japan-based Wiese believes a third consecutive World Cup win in 2027 is achievable. “With the unselfishness and team spirit we have, it’s definitely possible.”
Photo: Anton Geyser/Anton Geyser Media
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