In Cheslin Kolbe’s seven-year career with the Springboks, it is an anomaly that he has played just one Test in Australia – a defeat in Brisbane in 2018.
So, he is hungry to not just win there in Saturday’s Rugby Championship opener at the same Suncorp Stadium (6.30am start, SA time), but to be part of an exciting new era for the team.
“I made my debut in Brisbane and it was not a happy result, so to be back here with a team looking to build an exciting future is very cool,” the 30-year-old said yesterday.
“There is fresh talent coming through, and you know that there is always somebody pushing you for your position, so you must make the most of the healthy competition and play your best.
“But I’m not a player who looks too far ahead, because that is when you stumble.
“For me, it is just contributing as best I can, but mostly enjoying myself. That is why I play this game.”
Kolbe – who plays for Suntory Sungoliath in Tokyo these days after leaving French club Toulon last season – has scored 15 tries in his 33 Tests, and there is surely plenty more ahead of him as the Boks grow their attacking game under New Zealander Tony Brown.
Kolbe has yet to score a try against the Wallabies in two clashes with the Aussies, with his last touchdown coming against Ireland at Loftus Versfeld on July 6.
So, he will be keen to grab his first five-pointer against Joe Schmidt’s team on Saturday.
“Coach Tony comes with a lot of fresh ideas ... it’s a new voice to the group,” Kolbe said. “He was highly respected as a player and now as a coach. There is a lot of experience we can learn from.”
Part of Brown’s experience has been coaching in Japan at provincial level and with the national team.
“With me playing in Japan, the Japanese boys spoke highly about him, and since I’ve been back with the Springboks, coach Tony has been unbelievable. He just wants us to play rugby and express ourselves,” the Bok No 14 said.
“Yes, as a team there is a plan, but there is also a bit of freedom to bring your 1% to the team and make a difference, and that is very exciting.”