“I’m Really Blessed”: van den Berg’s Miracle Bicep Recovery Ahead Of Argentina Test
After months of uncertainty, surgery and rehabilitation, Springbok scrumhalf Morne “Krappies” van den Berg is back where he feels he belongs – in the green and gold.
The 28-year-old has made an impressive return ahead of schedule and described his comeback as the perfect way to ease back into the international setup after one of the toughest periods of his career.
“It’s a massive privilege to be back,” Van den Berg said.
“With the injury and with the Boks playing, I had a lot of motivation. I’m really blessed to have incredible people on my side who have helped me so much. Yes, I’m really feeling good,” added the Hoërskool Linden alumnus.
Van den Berg’s comeback has been remarkable considering the severity of the injury he suffered earlier this year. The dynamic scrumhalf tore his bicep in late May, requiring surgery and initially facing a recovery period of between four and six months.
The timing could hardly have been worse. The injury not only forced him to miss the Lions’ crucial United Rugby Championship quarter-final against Leinster – the franchise’s first-ever URC playoff match – but also threatened to derail his Springbok season just as he had established himself as one of the coaching staff’s most trusted options.
Renowned for his crisp service, eye for a gap, game management and outstanding box-kicking, Van den Berg has become a key figure in the Springboks’ tactical approach. His absence came at a time when South Africa was also without experienced scrumhalves Grant Williams, Cobus Reinach and Jaden Hendrikse, creating opportunities for others, including Embrose Papier, to stake their claims.
Yet Van den Berg never allowed himself to dwell on circumstances beyond his control.
“Those types of things are completely out of your control,” he said. “Players put their hands up throughout the year, and you are happy for them because they put in the effort and get rewarded.
“In my case, I could only deal with what was in front of me. I trust the plan that the Lord has for me. During that period, I was in a different phase from those who were getting opportunities. I had a chance to improve my skills, get fitter and become mentally stronger,” he added.
“You don’t always get to do what you think is best for you, but I tried to make the most of my situation at the time.”
Rather than focusing on the competition for places, Van den Berg viewed his rehabilitation as an opportunity for growth. While others were impressing on the field, he concentrated on returning stronger both physically and mentally, determined to be ready when his next opportunity arrived.
Now back in the Springbok environment, the scrumhalf believes the healthy competition among South Africa’s number nines can only strengthen the team.
“To come back and compete with them is incredible,” he said. “I’d like to think we really make each other better and, at the end of the day, you serve the Springboks. Once you’re in the system, you do whatever you can to make the Springboks better.”
Having completed the long road back from injury, Van den Berg’s focus has shifted from rehabilitation to contribution. His return gives the Springboks another proven option in one of their most competitive positions, while his resilience over the past few months has only deepened his appreciation for wearing the green and gold once again.
