South Africa’s imposing lock forward, Bakkies Botha, has slimmed down for the World Cup but still has a huge appetite for success before he calls it quits.
Botha is relishing a forward battle with Fiji in the quarterfinals on Sunday, where victory will keep the Springboks on course for a second world title and the 28-year-old on track for a half-century of caps.
”I think I’m a lot more experienced than I was in the 2003 World Cup,” said Botha, who will claim his 42nd cap this weekend.
”I’ve come back from injury and I definitely feel good. On this specific tour I’ve lost four kilos, which I feel has made me feel more mobile around the field.”
Botha, who has formed an impressive second-row partnership with Bulls teammate Victor Matfield, has no intention of following his close friend, who has signed a deal with French side Toulon, into European exile.
”At this stage I am still contracted to the Bulls, but my short-term goal is to get 50 caps for the Boks,” said Botha.
”But I have big dreams, I’d like to play against the British Lions when they tour South Africa in 2009, so if I am consistent I hope to be in the mix. But after 2009, who knows? I might then even play for a French club.
”It’s a life decision for Victor and I am really glad that we have played the last four years together.
”I will miss him but life goes on and it’s a big honour to have played with him. But like I said, it’s a decision Victor made as a family man.”
Botha believes rugby is on a high in South Africa at the moment, a fact supported by both the Bulls and the Sharks both reaching the Super 14 final last season.
”There’s so many positives to take out of this Super 14 season — I mean we had two teams in the final, so I think it’s indicative of how strong South African rugby is at the moment,” said Botha whose Bulls clinched the title.
The Springboks, world champions in 1995, are second favourites behind the All Blacks for the 2007 crown but they will not be taking Fiji, the conquerors of Wales, lightly.
”Fiji played a very intensive match against Wales. Their forwards are explosive and did well in the line-outs,” said Botha.
”We know that they love to run the ball, but I think we will be well prepared for the quarterfinal and I know everyone is looking forward to it.” — Sapa-AFP