Springbok wing Ethan Hooker focused and grounded ahead of first Test start against All Blacks
By
SABC Sport
9th September 2025
Ethan Hooker may be just two Tests into his international career, but the Springbok back insists he's not overawed by the prospect of starting against the All Blacks in one of rugby's fiercest rivalries.
The 21-year-old has been handed his first Test start by coach Rassie Erasmus and will run out on the left wing when South Africa face New Zealand in Wellington on Saturday - a critical Rugby Championship clash that could decide the fate of the Freedom Cup.
Hooker has impressed in his two appearances off the bench, first against Italy in Gqeberha and then in last week's 24â-17 defeat at Eden Park. Now, as part of a youthful backline reshuffle, he's preparing to face the All Blacks from the opening whistle.
Speaking to media during the week, Hooker said he was embracing the opportunity without allowing the occasion to become overwhelming.
"I've been playing rugby since I was 10 years old," he said. "When you're on the field, Test caps become irrelevant. It's about doing your job, sticking to what you've trained for, and executing."
The Sharks back described the selection as "a dream come true", especially with the match taking place in New Zealand - a country he grew up watching closely.
"I remember waking up early with my dad to watch Bok-All Black games. To be part of that now is special. Driving into Eden Park last week, and now getting a start in Wellington, it's all a bit surreal - but I'm staying focused on what's in front of me."
While the Springbok coaches have opted to inject youth into the side, Hooker has not been left to face the moment alone. He credits the senior players in the squad, particularly centres Jesse Kriel and Damian de Allende, for helping him settle during what has been a rapid rise to the Test arena.
"We're lucky to have Jesse and Damian around. They've helped us calm down, stay grounded, and focus on our roles. Their experience has been important - they don't say a lot, but what they do say really lands."
The Springbok backline for Saturday's match includes several players with limited Test experience, but Hooker believes the group has gelled well during the build-up.
"The combinations have come together nicely. The energy at training has been good. There's a real sense of excitement more than pressure. Everyone's eager to express themselves."
Hooker's transition from URC to Test rugby has been a learning curve, and the intensity of last week's match at Eden Park was an eye-opener.
"The pace and physicality are definitely a step up," he admitted. "You don't get much time to think. But getting that taste last week helped me understand what's required. I feel more prepared now."
With the Springboks needing a win to stay in the Rugby Championship race, Hooker knows the stakes are high. But he insists his mindset remains simple.
"At the end of the day, it's still a game of rugby. If you try to do too much or make it bigger than it is, that's when things go wrong. I just want to go out there, do my job, and contribute to the team."
Hooker's debut start marks another step in what could become a long Springbok career - and he's approaching it with both maturity and perspective.
"It's about trusting the system, the coaches, and your teammates. You don't have to do anything extraordinary. Just be consistent, be present, and make the most of the moment."
