Blitzboks aim for redemption in Perth despite key player absences: Tristan Leyds leads the charge
The Blitzboks, led by Tristan Leyds, aim to improve on their fourth-place finish at the Singapore SVNS as they face Spain, Argentina, and Fiji in Perth, despite missing key players Selvyn Davids, Dewald Human, and Ronald Brown. Picture: BackpagePix
Image: Backpagepix
The Blitzboks will be aiming for an improved performance from their fourth-place finish at the Singapore SVNS last week, ahead of the Perth event this weekend.
This is according to Blitzboks flyhalf Tristan Leyds as his side begin their group games on Saturday.
First up, they will take on Spain (5.58 am SA time) before matches against Argentina (9.14 am) and Fiji (12.52pm).
Last week, the Blitzboks beat Spain and Great Britain before losing to Fiji in their final group game. They would go on to also lose their semi-final against France and then the third-place playoff against New Zealand.
Blitzboks Face Challenges Without Key Players: Leyds Embraces Leadership Role
“We really can’t play without the ball. We would attack for 30 seconds, give the ball away, and then defend for two minutes. That came back to bite us, and we can’t repeat that,” said Leyds.
The Blitzboks will also be without the services of the injured Selvyn Davids, Dewald Human, and Ronald Brown.
“They have been in those roles for five, six, seven years, and they have really excelled in that, so stepping into the breach is huge, but I love the new challenge,” said Leyds.
“There were extra leadership duties that came my way, especially on this trip, but I would not want it any other way. It is part of growth, and I am all for it.
“Hopefully, I can do justice to that this weekend, especially. I have grown as a Blitzbok player over the seasons, and I am coming to grips with the demands of the World Series. Even some of my opponents from other teams remarked on my improved fitness.”