Jantjies: I’m an instinctive player

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Stormers scrumhalf Herschel Jantjies says he wants to continue growing as a player in his first full Vodacom Super Rugby season. DYLAN JACK reports.

Jantjies made his Stormers debut in their final game of the 2018 season against the Sharks, and then impressed for Western Province in the Currie Cup.

The 22-year-old has benefited from an injury to the experienced Jano Vermaak, as it’s given him the chance to nail down the Stormers’ No 9 jersey this season.

Speaking from his first tour to Australasia, Jantjies said he enjoys the opportunities that have come his way.

‘In my mind, I have always worked so that if this opportunity comes around I can be ready for it. I’m enjoying the game time I’m getting. It has been good for me and I’m definitely growing. Hopefully, I can get more time as the season goes on.’

The Paul Roos old boy was in the wars in both of the first two tour games against the Blues and Hurricanes, who put the youngster under plenty of pressure at the rucks.

‘There is definitely less time for scrumhalves in this competition – this was especially the case against the Blues – and more pressure at the rucks. But we obviously train for those things, and my role is to get there and get the ball out as quickly as possible and try not to let anything affect me.’

Jantjies has become known for his sniping runs around the ruck, memorably scoring the match-winning try against the Lions at Newlands.

‘I would say I’m an instinctive player,’ he said. ‘Our forwards have created the gaps for me because we have such a mobile pack. They make my job easier. I’m just fortunate to see that gap and go for it.

‘I’ve been working hard on my kicking, especially box kicks. It’s not where I want it to be or where it needs to be. There has definitely been huge growth in that aspect of my game. I’m working hard on it, and it certainly will become one of my strengths.’

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Dylan Jack