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Springbok flyhalf, Morne Steyn, has announced his retirement from Test rugby on Tuesday, October 19. Steyn, who made his test debut against the British & Irish Lions in 2009 played 68 times for the Boks as well as scoring 742 points. 

However, Steyn’s journey in the green and gold hasn’t been an easy one after being left out of a few major tournaments. He only received a call earlier this year after a five-year absence. Springbok coach, Jacques Nienaber described Steyn’s latest involvement as inspiring, so much so that it helped secure the series victory against the British and Irish Lions when he kicked the winning penalty, like back in 2009. 

“Morné has been a great servant to the game in South Africa. He wrote history in terms of the British & Irish Lions and he has been a great guy to work with.

“He won the Castle Lager Lions Series twice, and the manner in which he did it speaks volume for his on-field abilities. Hats off to him for the magic he created on the field,” Nienaber said.

 

Source: EJ Langner/Gallo Images

Nienaber told SA Rugby that although he would have liked to see Steyn continue to fulfil a role in the Springbok setup for the next two seasons, he wishes Steyn well as continues his career with the Vodacom Bulls.

“Something that also probably contributed to his decision is that he’s a big family man, and with the COVID-19 pandemic access for his family was not as easy as usual. We wouldn’t have selected him if we didn’t feel there wasn’t a role he could play up until 2023, but we are all in different stages of our lives, and we respect his decision and wish him well, Nienaber mentioned.

Steyn, jou doring! 

Picture: EJ Langner/Gallo Images

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