Lions in SA
Kirchner was unlucky - Muir
2009-06-22 22:36
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Stephen NellCape Town - Zane Kirchner's dream to play for South Africa could soon become a reality after making a good impression on the Springbok backline coach, Dick Muir.
Muir coaches the Emerging Boks who will take on the British and Irish Lions at Newlands on Tuesday.
Kirchner's performance at fullback will be watched closely. "He was excellent in the Bulls' Super14 campaign and one of the unlucky ones when it came to the Springbok squad. One of the aims with the Emerging Boks is to get to know these players a bit better," said Muir.
"Zane is one of the guys who stood out for me. He is an impressive guy and possesses some very good skills. He can consider himself as unlucky for not making the Bok squad," the former Sharks coach added.
"But he now has an opportunity for him to show his true talent."
Kirchner, who can be very dangerous with the ball in his hands, will have to show off his other capabilities - including his fine kicking boot and ability to remain calm - against opponents of international quality.
The weather conditions for Newlands are expected to be rather dismal and this will definitely not make it easier for the fullback.
"Our mindset with the match is that, this is the choice of South African players who have not previously played in a Test for the country. They all have something to prove and there is no better challenge than playing against the Lions," said Muir.
The Emerging Boks could also strike a psychological blow against the Lions ahead of Saturday's second Test at Loftus Versfeld.
"It is an opportunity to do that. We all strive towards the same goal and that is for South Africa to win the Test series. The Lions are very proud of that red jersey and for many of their players, this could be their last match on the tour," Muir said.
"They will also be trying to make a point."
Earl Rose, flyhalf for the Emerging Boks is a man who, has something to prove after all the time he spent on the Lions' substitute bench during the Super14 series.
"There is nothing wrong with being on the substitute bench. It helps you grow as a person. It's about 22 players, not 15. Earl is coming into his own and it is now the right time for him to step up."
"It is good to see him in an environment where is able to come into his own as a senior player. This is a big opportunity for him and the other players," said Muir.