Sometimes the biggest contributions to a team's success occur off the field. Ahead of the recent Rugby World Cup in France, Springbok center Jesse Kriel spoke about how teammate Lukhanyo Am contributed to his great performance in the tournament.
Injuries, opportunities and teamwork
With Amu injured his knee in a warm-up game and withdrew, Kriel took the starting position at center. Despite the setback, Amu returned to the Springboks after Makazole Mapimpi was sent off from the tournament. Am himself did not return to the pitch, but his actions behind the scenes proved significant.
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“Many people want to be in first and second place. [in the pecking order]” explains Kriel. “But I think Luhanho and I share a really special relationship. We're really good buddies on and off the field. That's what's special about this team — the players really get along with each other. I want to do my best, which is very rare in professional sports.”
Teamwork that transcends ego
Kriel reveals how Amu played a unique supporting role. He sent detailed analyzes of Kriel's upcoming opponents and even imitated their playing styles in training sessions. “It's almost like we're showing pictures to train the opposition on what they're going to present,” Kriel said.
This selfless dedication stems from the coaching philosophy instilled by coach Rassie Erasmus.
“That's what Lassie always talks about,” Kriel emphasizes. “The important thing is to get the right people, but not necessarily the best people. He told us many times, 'There are better rugby players in the world than you guys.' . But he always talks about having the right people on the team. “
Kriel talks about his role
“I think everyone has a very clear role in their role, whether they’re on the team or not,” Kriel said. “The important thing is to understand and put your ego aside and understand what's best for the team. Understand that there's something bigger than yourself and you're playing for your country. Thing”
This extraordinary display of teamwork highlights the power of a common purpose and focus on the success of the entire team. For the South African Springboks, these values are at the heart of victory.
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