Springbok Canan Moodie. Photo: SA Rugby via Twitter.
Moodie ready to activate beast mode for Springboks
Canan Moodie, selected at outside for the Springboks’ upcoming Test against Tonga, has suggested he is ready to torment opposition defences when playing in his new position.
Springbok Canan Moodie. Photo: SA Rugby via Twitter.
Moodie will start at No 13 and will be partnered in the Springboks’ midfield by Andre Esterhuizen in the Pool B encounter against the Pacific Islanders at the Stade de Marseille on Sunday night.
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The Springbok utility back Moodie, who first established himself as a wing in the team before moving to outside centre in a hard-running midfield pairing with Esterhuizen, was delighted with his new role in the team, and also looked forward the match.
“I played outside centre at school, and I loved the position,” said Moodie.
“When the opportunity came along, I grabbed it with hands, and I was surprised when I saw my name on the team sheet in that position against the All Blacks. There’s a big defensive element at No 13, and the more I’ve played there, the better I adapted again, so hopefully it’s a position I can continue in going forward.”
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Moodie praised Kolisi for his contribution to the Springbok team before his remarkable achievement of leading South Africa for the 50th time on Sunday, and said he was a key player both and off the field.
“When I first joined the Springbok camp, he was one of the first players who asked if I needed anything. This is a special moment for him and his family. He’s a special guy who brings something special to the group.”
The match against Tonga kicks off at 21h00 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.
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SPRINGBOKS V TONGA TEAMS
Springboks — 15 Willie le Roux, 14 Grant Williams, 13 Canan Moodie, 12 Andre Esterhuizen, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Duane Vermeulen, 6 Siya Kolisi (Captain), 5 Marvin Orie, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Vincent Koch, 2 Deon Fourie, 1 Ox Nche.
Subs: 16 Marco van Staden, 17 Steven Kitshoff, 18 Trevor Nyakane, 19 Franco Mostert, 20 Kwagga Smith, 21 Jaden Hendrikse, 22 Jesse Kriel, 23 Manie Libbok.
Tonga — 15 Charles Piutau, 14 Fine Inisi, 13 Malakai Fekitoa, 12 Pita Ahki, 11 Anzelo Tuitavuki, 10 William Havili, 9 Augustine Pulu, 8 Semisi Paea, 7 Sione Talitui, 6 Tanginoa Halaifonua, 5 Sam Lousi, 4 Halaleva Fifita, 3 Ben Tameifuna (captain), 2 Paula Ngauamo, 1 Siegfried Fisi’ihoi.
Subs: 16 Sam Moli, 17 Tau Koloamatangi, 18 Sosefo Apikotoa, 19 Adam Coleman, 20 Sione Vailanu, 21 Sonatane Takulua, 22 Patrick Pellegrini, 23 Afusipa Taumoepeau.
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SOUTH AFRICAN TEAM GRAPHIC
