Duane Vermeulen feels young and energised ahead of World Cup

Duane Vermeulen acknowledged the key role played by Ulster in getting him ready for the Rugby World Cup as he feels ‘young and energised.’

Vermeulen says that the Irish province managed his workload well and he is feeling great ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

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DUANE VERMEULEN GIVES ULSTER CREDIT

Vermeulen says that he has surprised himself with his play in the green and gold this term.

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“If you had asked me at the beginning of the year I would have said there is no way that I would have made this (World Cup) squad. Then a couple of weeks ago we started playing and I felt good. My body felt good. I was well rested,” explained Vermeulen.

“Ulster really managed me well throughout the (URC) season. So I kind of feel refreshed and young and energised even though it doesn’t say that on paper. I am in a good place, so coming into today (Tuesday’s team announcement) I felt whatever happens will happen.

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“I have really enjoyed my career so far but it’s not over yet. So I am looking forward to it (World Cup), and hopefully we can take all the advantages that come our way.”

DUANE VERMEULEN’S LEGACY

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Vermeulen hopes that he has made the No 8 jersey mean something to the players who will pick up the gauntlet once he steps aside.

“There is an emotional side to it and there is the jersey and what it means. It means different things to every individual who has played in it,” said Vermeulen.

“I have had a good chat to Jasper Wiese and Evan Roos and hopefully when I step out they will understand what the jersey meant for me.

“So hopefully the next guy who steps in, a youngster coming into the Boks, they can now give it to them and tell them this is what it meant to the guy who had the jersey before me. If I can pass that legacy on I would be very happy.”

A BETTER PLACE

Vermeulen believes that South African rugby is stronger than it was in 2019.

“If you look at the group back in 2019 a lot of the guys were very certain in their positions. We didn’t have a big competitive group and the players kind of knew who would be going (to the World Cup) and who would stay,” admitted Vermeulen.

“This year it is completely different. There are a lot of guys (in the squad) and a lot of competition. Everyone has got an opportunity, some a little less than others. But this is a talented group and if you look at it, the future is bright for South African rugby.

“It’s nice to see the youngsters getting an opportunity, stepping up and really playing well. So rugby is strong in the country and that is a fantastic thing to see.”