Morne Steyn wants to play for the Springboks again and will go all out to prove that he still has what it takes when the Blue Bulls host the Golden Lions in the Currie Cup semifinal on Saturday.
The 36-year-old played the last of his 66 Tests in 2016, but since his return to the Bulls from Stade Francais last year he has made his stem dik again.
Up against World Cup winning flyhalf Elton Jantjies in the trans-Jukskei derby, Steyn says of his Bok drome: “It will always be a case of you wanting to be better than your opponent, and while you are playing rugby in South Africa, that dream will always be there to play for the Springboks.
“I told myself that I didn’t take myself out of Springbok rugby, so every game is a game to prove myself. And it doesn’t matter how many Tests you have played, it is always about wanting to be the best, and to play for your country again.
“I am looking forward to playing against Elton. Always a good battle between me and him, and he has also had a good year up to now.”
Of his long-term future, Steyn says: “Maybe I can still sign on for another year or two.”
As for the semifinal clash, he adds: “A lot of the guys haven’t played in a semifinal – and some of them haven’t played in a Currie Cup before.
“So, I think it’s a big day for them, but after today’s training and the whole season, everybody’s ready for the game.”