Butch James is back in the Springbok green and gold and relishing the chance to add a second chapter to a glorious 2007.
”It’s such an honour to be back with the Boks. Obviously we achieved something massive last year, but the opportunity to build on that success and not just be satisfied with being the best team in the world for four weeks is a challenge I’m really enjoying,” James told www.sarugby.co.za on Tuesday.
”There’s an energy in the camp that’s gonna lead to big things, I think. As a squad we’ve got big goals, but we need to make sure we’re only focusing on the next step in order to succeed at the bigger plan.”
James has returned from a highly successful club season with English club team Bath, a spell that has expanded his horizons.
”It was a great experience and I really enjoyed my time in England. There was a stage in 2005 when I thought I wouldn’t get to play rugby again, let alone with clubs of the calibre of Bath. It was awesome.”
James has slotted in seamlessly into the Bok set-up following his return a week ago, and has brought direction and impetus to the backline when he’s run on at number 10. He has been a voice of caution at all team discussions this week, ensuring that the Welsh get the respect they deserve ahead of the Test match in Bloemfontein on Saturday.
”I played against a lot of the Welsh guys in the last year, and being in England saw a lot of the Six Nations. They’re a quality outfit, make no mistake, and we expect a very stern test from them on Saturday.” — Sapa