Paulse: I have nothing to prove

2006-10-27 22:09

Hendrik Cronje

Bloemfontein - "I don't want to prove a point playing against the Springboks."

This is the view of Breyton Paulse, who'll play on the wing for the World XV against the Boks in Leicester on December 3.

"Bok coach Jake White knows what I'm capable of and I don't believe a player can be judged after playing just one match."

Paulse says he considers the match an opportunity to play festival rugby.

He said jokingly: "The Boks mustn't worry - I won't divulge their call signals!"

White said that Paulse was still in his plans, even though he wasn't afforded much opportunity to wear the Bok jersey this year.

Paulse said: "It's to my advantage that I've played in France and got used to the European conditions. I want to be involved in this historic match."

The match against the World XV will be two days shy of 100 years ago that South Africa's rugby players first wore the Springbok jersey against an Eastern Midlands team in Northampton during Paul Roos's 1906/07-led tour to Britain.

Even though Paulse is enjoying the opportunity to rest, he will be ready to show the selectors what he's capable of.

The Rugby World Cup tournament will be held next year and he will have to be at the top of his game to get back into the squad.

Even though his weight and height are not to his advantage, he has an educated boot, which could be invaluable in the European conditions.

At this stage it appears as if Paulse will be the only South African representative to play against the Boks although World Team coach, Bob Dwyer, has shown interest to acquiring the skills of Kabamba Floors, Brent Russell, Thinus Delport and Cobus Visagie.

Meanwhile, South African Rugby Players Association CEO, Piet Heymans, says a decision has not yet been taken whether or not the match will be afforded Test status.

SA Rugby was scheduled to make a decision this week, but as a result of some urgent matters, a decision has not yet been taken.

- Volksblad