Share

Cricket challenge excites Butch

Cape Town - Former Springbok flyhalf Butch James is relishing the opportunity of helping the rugby boys face the Proteas in the Nelson Mandela Legacy Cup at the Wanderers on 5 December.

After a great response to the Springbok-Proteas T20 cricket clash on January 3, 2014 at Newlands, the two teams will face off again, this time at the Wanderers in Johannesburg.

There's plenty of excitement as the Springboks have announced a star-studded squad, including the likes of Jean de Villiers, Victor Matfield, Cornal Hendricks, Willie le Roux, Bismarck du Plessis and Duane Vermeulen.

James, who played 42 Tests for South Africa, also features in the team. The former Sharks and Golden Lions hardman hopes to give the Springboks some bite.

"I got the call from the Boks if I was keen to play, and I'm definitely excited," James told MyPlayers.co.za. "It was great to be part of the team earlier this year. We did very well against the Proteas.

"I was a wicket-keeper and batsman in that game, but I think Jean de Villiers will take the gloves in the upcoming match. I'll look to make an impact with the bat.

"I can also bowl a few spinners... that are slow, straight and don't move much. If that doesn't work, I'll stick to some medium pace."

James is confident the two teams can put on a great sporting spectacle for the South African fans.

"The Proteas and Springboks are two of the favourite sports teams in the country, so it promises to be a great day for the fans," said James. "It's a day they can see some of their favourite sportsmen on one field."

James added that the Springboks will be aiming for the victory, after the Proteas won by 28 runs in the last T20 game at Newlands.

"I can ensure you that the Springboks will be going all out for the win. The game is for a bit of fun, but the rugby players are always competitive." 

For more exclusive player content, check out MyPlayers.co.za

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
loading... Live
Dolphins 0
Warriors RSA 0
loading... Live
Pakistan 0
New Zealand 166/4
Voting Booth
Should the Proteas pick Faf du Plessis for the T20 World Cup in West Indies and the United States in June?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Faf still has a lot to give ...
65% - 402 votes
No! It's time to move on ...
35% - 220 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE