Bulls Halfback Ready For The Springbok Pressure Cooker
Embrose Papier admits there will always be nerves before pulling on the Springbok jersey, but the experienced scrumhalf says excitement has outweighed any anxiety as he prepares for his long-awaited return to the international stage.
After several years on the outside looking in, Papier’s outstanding form for the Vodacom Bulls earned him a deserved recall to the Springbok squad. Now in line to feature this weekend, the opportunity carries added significance as he prepares for a potential return to Test rugby against Scotland in the Nations Championship at his home ground, Loftus Versfeld.
“I think there’s always nerves before a Test match,” Papier said. “But I’m super excited about the opportunity. We’re all looking forward to the game.”
Having last featured regularly in the national setup in 2018, the Bulls scrumhalf reflected on how much has changed since his previous stint with the Springboks.
“2018 was a long time ago, and I can’t really remember,” he joked.
“It’s great working under the coaches. I’m learning a lot every day. I missed a lot of the guys who are familiar faces. It’s just great to be back in this environment and to learn from them.”
Papier is also set to reunite with experienced flyhalf Handré Pollard, a player he believes brings invaluable composure and leadership to the side.
“We all know Handré has a lot of experience,” Papier said. “We’ve spent a lot of time together on the pitch, and I’m just excited to go into this game with him.”
Despite the confidence that comes with Pollard’s presence, Papier knows the Springboks face another stern examination.
“We know it’s going to be a challenge,” he said. “It’s a different calling being in the Springbok environment, and we need to pitch up on the day and make sure we give our all.”
Papier’s return is the reward for years of consistent performances at franchise level after falling out of the national picture. While he acknowledged that his perseverance has finally paid off, he insisted there is still plenty of work ahead.
“Definitely,” he said when asked whether the recall validated his hard work. “It’s exciting to be back. I still need to grow and work hard to earn my place here, but it’s all about putting the team first.”
For Papier, selection is only one part of the job, with every member of the squad expected to contribute, regardless of whether they make the matchday 23.
“If you play, you have to prepare the guys really well,” he said. “And when it’s your opportunity, you need to give your all.”
It is a philosophy that has become synonymous with the Springboks under Rassie Erasmus, and one Papier is determined to embrace as he looks to make the most of his second opportunity in the green and gold.
