Blitzboks rookie draws inspiration from uncle Kwagga Smith
Having a double World Cup-winning Springbok as an uncle is of immeasurable value for Blitzbok Tiaan Pretorius as he enters the infancy of his international career.
Tiaan Pretorius is set to represent the Blitzboks at this weekend’s Singapore Sevens, where they will face Spain, Samoa and France in three pool games.
The South African team is currently in seventh position on the overall sevens series log after a wretched campaign under the now-fired coach Sandile Ngcobo, who was sacked and replaced by Philip Snyman.
And with Singapore being the second-last tournament season (the Madrid Sevens will take place from 31 May to 2 June), the Blitzboks have virtually no shot at winning any silverware and thus have very little to play for.
But Pretorius, who is one of the relatively new members of the Blitzboks squad, is adamant they are capable of beating the best on the basis that they’ve been competitive throughout the 2023-2024 series.
“We are really geared up for this one as we all understand the importance of getting some momentum for the remainder of the season,” said Pretorius.
“In my case, I also have a point to proof [sic]. I last played in Cape Town, but got injured and that was a bit of a downer. But I am back now, fit and ready and keen to contribute to the team goals for the weekend.”
WILL PRETORIUS GO FROM BLITZBOKS ACE TO SPRINGBOKS STAR LIKE UNCLE KWAGGA?
Pretorius admits that having Kwagga Smith, a double Rugby World Cup winner with the Springboks and a former Blitzbok, as an uncle has been inspirational in his own rugby career.
“Look what he has achieved due to hard work,” the Blitzboks ace said. “His success came because he outworked others wherever he played. That inspires me, as it shows that it can be done. He also got bronze at the Olympics and that for now, is something that I can relate and aspire to.”
Pretorius understands that a good performance in Singapore can put him on the inside lane for Madrid and Monaco: “There were some changes in the squad since I last played, and the change in belief is the one I liked most. The team realise that the season is not over and that a lot can still be achieved. I want to be part of that.”
Blitzboks pool schedule:
Friday, 3 May
7:58am, vs Spain
1:10pm, vs Samoa
Saturday, 4 May
8:24am, vs France
