“A Few More Minutes…” — Wiese Speaks Out After Bittersweet 50th Springbok Milestone
Jasper Wiese admitted that his 50th Test appearance did not go according to plan, but the Springbok No. 8 said reaching the milestone remains an incredibly special achievement.
Wiese earned his 50th cap for South Africa in a dramatic encounter against Australia, with the Springboks fighting back from 25 points down before ultimately losing 42-38 in Perth on Sunday.
Despite the disappointment of the result, Wiese reflected positively on the significance of reaching the half-century mark in the green and gold.
“If you represent your country once, it’s an amazing privilege, but to do it 50 times is no credit to myself,” Wiese said.
“This is an unbelievable group, and it’s just a privilege to have done it with them.
“Although we didn’t get a result, I feel bad for the guys who got an opportunity on Sunday, but it’s still incredibly special,” he added.
The Springboks showed tremendous character in the closing stages, turning what appeared to be a one-sided contest into a tense finish.
After trailing by 25 points, South Africa came roaring back as Australia imploded and, at one stage, were reduced to 11 players on the field. The Springboks cut the deficit to just four points inside the final quarter.
For Wiese, the late fightback was a clear reflection of the character within the Springbok squad.
“Being 25 points down and losing by four within 10 minutes shows what this group is about,” he said.
“We were chasing the game at the end, but a few more minutes…” Wiese said, reflecting on what might have been.
Wiese acknowledged that the defeat would provide valuable lessons for the team despite the disappointment of failing to secure victory.
“It is always a dangerous thing to say, but I’m just proud of the boys and the fight they’ve shown,” he said.
“The last 15 minutes showed how special this group is.
“We learnt some good lessons. We always want to win while learning, but sometimes losing is not necessarily a good thing, but sometimes it’s necessary.”
After beating the All Blacks to secure Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, and with the Nations Championship now on the horizon, Wiese believes the disappointment of the defeat can provide additional motivation for the Springboks.
“It’s definitely sore for me to lose here,” Wiese said.
“I think the fight is going to be bigger. Everybody in this group wants to give their best to South Africa and for the jersey.
“I’m convinced we will come back stronger.”
