RG Snyman celebrates 50th Test with 'special win' against Ireland

RG Snyman celebrates 50th Test with 'special win' against Ireland

Springbok lock RG Snyman says he never expected to play 50 Tests for his country and was delighted to do so with a win against an Ireland team full of familiar faces.

Snyman plies his trade for Irish United Rugby Championship side Leinster, which is packed full of players that represent Ireland at the international level.

He made his debut for South Africa in 2018 in an epic match against England. South Africa were trailing 24-3 at halftime and managed to overcome the deficit to win 42-39, with Snyman playing a crucial role.

The 30-year-old has had to overcome numerous adversities since then on his path to 50 Tests, including a string of injuries and a freak accident that left him burned, making it difficult for him to secure his place in the Springboks setup.

"It was nice playing at the Aviva," he said after South Africa beat Ireland in Dublin for the first time since 2013.

"There were familiar faces on the other side of the field. It was just a special week for me, having my wife here, and feeling it's kind of like you're home.

"So, I really appreciate the occasion and the game. It's something I'll remember forever.

"I never thought I would be here throughout those years. I thought it was something I wouldn't be able to achieve. So personally, it's special.

"The way in which the guys handled the week and treated me throughout the week was really memorable.

"The Irish are a great team, and they're very focused - it's also always physical against them, so I'm happy with the result.

"It was obviously interesting (how the match unfolded with a red card and several yellow cards being dished out), especially with us having been through similar situations in the last two weeks.

"I don't think I've ever been involved in a game that was as chaotic as that was. That said, I thought the boys handled it well, and we adapted to what was happening."

South Africa are on course to complete the Castle Lager Outgoing Tour with five wins from five Tests if they can overcome Wales in their final match of the season.

"It was a big goal for us, so everything's going according to plan at the moment," Snyman said.

"I'm so appreciative of the fact that the guys are so adaptable, and how they fit into and buy into the plans and just focus on each week going into the game."

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