Willemse reflects on 50th Cap after England victory

The Springboks secured a 45-21 victory over England on Saturday evening in their opening match in the inaugural Nations Championship at Ellis Park Stadium. 

Willemse, who delivered a flawless performance, achieved his 50th international cap for the Springboks.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Willemse says the back-three of himself, Cheslin Kolbe and Kurt-lee Arendse did a great job in containing England’s kicking game. 

"It was a great team victory for us, first test win of the year. We got off to a good start in the opening 10-15 minutes, but we knew they were going to bounce back. The things we prepped for we didn't really get quite right, but I think we did a great job with handling their game."

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Willemse made his debut against Argentina at Kings Park Stadium during the 2018 Rugby Championship. The 28-year-old says it was special to reach the milestone of 50 Test caps alongside teammate Cheslin Kolbe…

"It was a really special occasion for the both of us, as well as the team. I'm just really grateful for the coaching staff, the players, and my family."

The Springboks next face Scotland on Saturday at Loftus Versveld in the Nations Championship. The Scottish side beat Argentina 47-38 in their opening round of the Southern Series of the Championship.

Willemse says the Boks will reconvene on Sunday afternoon to analyse their game.