Stormers co-captain Salmaan Moerat is on a journey to become a better rugby player over the next four weeks.
Called up to the Springbok squad for the first time for their end-of-year tour to the UK, the 23-year-old lock is currently in France where the Boks are getting ready for their first match against Wales in Cardiff on November 6.
The only newbie in the camp, Moerat – a former Junior Springbok captain – knows he will have to bide his time.
But that’s exactly what he is willing to do in order to hit the ground running when called upon.
Having come through the youth ranks, Moerat says in an online media conference on Sunday: “It’s been really special [to get the call-up] and so far it’s been very nice to join up with the guys.
“This is an ideal week just to get to know how they do things in the environment”.”
So far it’s only the South Africa and Japan-based contingent in France.
Of what he wants out of the three-match tour which also includes matches against Scotland at Murrayfield and England at Twickenham, Moerat says: “[The goal is] just to become a better rugby player in next three to four weeks, learn as much as possible...
“Just to get a feel of how they do things – if everyone gets an opportunity [to play then that’s wonderful], if not it’s just to become a better player and to enjoy the experience and to take it all in.”
He adds of his journey to wearing the Green and Gold: “I’ve been privileged enough to play for South Africa at school level and U20 level – I’ve been through the system...
“This is extremely special to myself, my family and hopefully I can become a better player.
“Hopefully when the opportunity comes [to make my debut, I] will be better for that.”
Bok coach Jacques Nienaber has warned that there won’t be any real surprises in his team selection on tour, having played only 10 Tests in a two-year period since winning the World Cup in 2019.
But who knows? Paarliet Moerat might just get his chance earlier than expected.
One thing is certain, he will be ready to take the opportunity when it comes.
dudley.carstens@inl.co.za