Patrick Lambie set to make his test debut for Springboks against All Blacks - Rugby News
Patrick Lambie, who has been brought in to replace injured Gio Aplon, is set to make his International test debut for Springboks on July 30 against the All Blacks. Too many injuries to the Springboks have forced them to include young blood in their side
and Patrick Lambie is getting his chance due to the same reasons.
Making the announcement of Lambie’s inclusion in the playing 15 on July 28, the Boks Coach, Peter de Villiers, expressed his full confidence in the player and declared him the future of South African rugby.
The South African Rugby Union (SARU) is facing a huge injuries crisis after a number of players were ruled out from the opening two matches of Tri-Nations Cup 2011. The union was accused of sending their “B team” in the ongoing competition because of the
large number of uncapped players in the squad. Peter de Villiers has also come under the fire from the various critics who have stated that injuries are being used as an excuse to rest key players to keep them fresh for Rugby World Cup 2011.
The 20-year-old Lambie has got the ability to play on various positions in the field including fullback, fly-half and centre. However, he is named as a fullback for their forthcoming match.
Making the announcement Lambie’s entry into the Boks team, De Villiers said that he has got enough talent to represent his national side. De Villiers further said that, “Lambie is the logical replacement for Aplon. Who else could one use there than Lambie.
He has the potential to become a big Springbok, it's in his genes to play top rugby. However, would he do it as a flyhalf, a centre or a fullback? It's a big ask to do it against the All Blacks in New Zealand, but I have faith in him.”
Lambie was delighted at being included in his national side as he told the media, “This weekend I'm really excited to be getting my first start and it's at fullback so I'll be giving my best and doing whatever I can to help the team.”
Lambie will be seen in action for the first time in an International competition as the two best sides of the world, springboks and All Blacks, will be standing toe-to-toe in their upcoming clash of the Tri-Nations in Wellington.
Tags: