1. How do you think the Sharks season went this year?
It was one of mixed feelings and results. We started out well and then took a dip in mid season. Still happy that we reach the quarter finals though, but with one or two different results it could've been a whole different season.
2. How do you think South Africa will do in the Rugby World Cup?
I am very positive that they will do great! With everyone recovered from injury we can really pick a strong squad and team and I am sure they will do the whole country proud!
3. How did it feel making your debut for the Boks?
Obviously that is one of my biggest and proudest moments in my career. It is something that you dream of from a very young age and to stand there and sing the national anthem before your first Test is just an awesome feeling.
4. When you were first told you had been called up for the Boks how was the feeling?
I was very surprised! I was not selected in the original squad and was only called up after Andre Pretorius suffered an injury. At that stage I was 20 years old and just played in my first Currie cup, so it really came out of the blue. When it sank in at last, I was very excited, but also a little bit nervous as well.
5. Who was your rugby idol growing up?
I was a big fan of Henry Honniball when I was a kid. I just loved the way he played and the way he smashed anyone with the ball, no matter how big they were! Later when I started playing centre I admired the way Aaron Mauger played.
6. So far what has been your career highlight?
Definitely winning the Currie Cup in 2005 for the first time and then making my debut for the Boks later that same year.
7. Would you ever consider moving to Europe to play rugby?
Yes I would. One never knows what the future holds, but when the right opportunity arises, I will definitely consider moving to Europe.
8. Are there any players that impress you from the Northern Hemisphere teams?
There are a lot of my mates and ex-teammates that are currently playing in the Northern Hemisphere and I really enjoy following them. A guy like Michael Claassens for Bath and Ronnie Cooke for Brive has really done well since they started playing there just to name a few.
9. Who has been the toughest player you have played against so far?
I have played against a lot of really good and talented players so it is quite a difficult question to answer. I would say, probably surprising to a lot of people, Anthony Tuitivaki from the Auckland Blues. He is very quick, very strong and got great feet. A Difficult customer to bring down!
10. You have played in fantastic teams but who is the best player you have played with?
That is really too difficult to answer! I have played with a lot of great and talented players and to name one would be impossible!
11. What made you join the Sharks from the Cheetahs?
I played for the Cheetahs for 6 years (since 2005) and felt that it was time for a change and some new challenges. The Sharks are a very professional team and outfit and gives a player excellent opportunities. I also enjoy the brand of rugby that The Sharks produce, so I decided to sign a 2 year deal with them. I really loved my time with the Cheetahs, but I can honestly say that I haven't looked back since joining The Sharks and I am really enjoying myself at the moment!!
12. It must be great to play with Boks internationals, did you enjoy spending the 2011 Super Rugby season with them?
Definitely! To be surrounded by such quality players is a privilege. They raise all the standards and it forces you to do the same.
13. As a successful professional what advice would you give to youngsters who are trying to make it as a professional rugby player?
Keep working hard and when your opportunity comes, grab it with both hands!
Other Questions
Favourite holiday destination?
Sea or Bushveld. Both can be found in South Africa?
Favourite food?
Braaivleis
Favourite movies?
Gladiator, Taken
Favourite band/artist?
Wide variety
Favourite sport/team (which isn't in rugby)?
Golf
What do you do in your spare time when not playing rugby?
Spend time with my wife, family and friends, play golf, watch movies, read, hunt.
Finally “ if you had a message to say to your fans who have been supporting the Sharks week in week out, what would you say to all of them?
Thank you very much!! You will never know how much your support means to the team!