As the HSBC SVNS Cape Town tournament draws near, Siviwe Soyizwapi is preparing to make his much-anticipated return to the Blitzboks line-up after a lengthy injury absence, Cape {town} Etc reports.
A year ago, Soyizwapi found himself in the stands at DHL Stadium, watching the Blitzboks in action and sharing in the highs and lows of their performance. Now, after recovering from a knee operation that kept him off the field for much of the 2024 World Series, Soyizwapi is back where he belongs — on the field, ready to represent his team.
Reflecting on his time as a spectator, Soyizwapi noted the unique perspective it gave him on the energy and excitement of the tournament. ‘It was actually quite nice to experience the build-up in the crowd as the Blitzboks’ games approached,’ Soyizwapi said.
‘You could feel the buzz picking up and the energy starting to grow as kick-off approached. As a player, you are in your own zone before you enter the field, so you don’t always appreciate that build-up from the crowd. But once that whistle goes, you can feel the support from the stands.’
Soyizwapi understands the weight of expectations placed on the team, largely due to their past successes. With a new group of players in place, he sees immense potential in this current squad. ‘Look, we had some amazing teams and players in the past, but as in any team, you change personnel and with that, some dynamics. What excites about this group is the potential we have and knowing that it can click any moment.’
A former wing with 152 tries in 54 tournaments and 780 points on the HSBC SVNS circuit, Soyizwapi now finds himself in a new role as a forward. While he doesn’t anticipate adding to his try tally anytime soon, his focus is on contributing to the team’s physicality and overall effort.
‘They are both very physical players so for me stepping into those roles will demand the same,’ Soyizwapi said, referring to injured players Ryan Oosthuizen and Christie Grobbelaar. ‘I cannot be either of them, but I can be the best I can be, doing what is needed and expected from the coaches and fellow players.’
After a year on the sidelines, Soyizwapi has gained a deeper appreciation for the game. ‘I realised last year that injury can finish your career when you least expect it, so I am grateful to still be playing,’ he explained.
‘At my age and stage of career, I am playing every match as if it will be my last. As I will do at this Cape Town tournament. I missed out last year and that gave me a different perspective of what it means.’
Soyizwapi, who will be playing in front of his home crowd, is determined to channel the energy of the fans into his performance. ‘Now, back on the field again and playing at home, I want to translate some of that passion in the stands into my play. And hopefully add value to a team effort that will leave all our fans proud and pleased,’ he said.
The Blitzboks will be announced on Thursday, and tickets for both days of the tournament are selling quickly through Ticketmaster. Soyizwapi’s return marks an exciting chapter for the team as they aim to thrill the passionate Cape Town crowd.
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Picture: Ashley Vlotman / Gallo Images
