Springbok scrumhalf Grant Williams against Australia in the Rugby Championship. Photo: SA Rugby website.
Springbok sensation says perserverance is key to reach the top
Sharks and Springboks scrumhalf Grant Williams catches the eye almost every time he plays but he had to sweat to get where he is.
Springbok scrumhalf Grant Williams against Australia in the Rugby Championship. Photo: SA Rugby website.
Sharks and Springboks scrumhalf Grant Williams catches the eye almost every time he plays but he had to sweat to get where he is.
Williams is known for his dynamic attacking play and incredible speed and acceleration but as a small guy in a big man’s game he has had his struggles.
Perseverance key for a Springbok
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Injuries have also kept him from making his international breakthrough sooner but Williams is happy with the timing.
“I played club rugby after school in 2014,” Williams said according to Rugby365.
“I then ended up at College Rovers in Durban.
He adds: “I think perseverance is probably the biggest thing that is instilled in me. It helped me to this point and I am extremely grateful,” he said.
“My first Bok camp was in 2021 and I think it was a blessing in disguise that I didn’t go too quickly because I didn’t think I was ready.
“I am now finally ready to play international rugby. It takes a lot to work through everything to get to the point where I am now. I am very thankful for the opportunity.
“For the first time, I am healthy because I had a lot of niggles. I really struggled with small injuries and this is the first time that I can complete a season without any injury.”
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It is Grant Williams’ time
Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber has handed Williams his first start this weekend and feels that he is ready to set Test rugby alight.
“Grant is on his third Test and his first start. It is our job to help him gain experience during the week to give him as much exposure of what he is going to get on Saturday.
“So that he is happy and comfortable in the role that he has to fulfil so that doesn’t have to think about it, he can just bring out his natural talent and that makes him special.
“Yes, he has a role to fulfil, but there is also something that Grant brings to the table that makes him special, that is a Grant Williams thing,” Nienaber explained.
