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Habana eager to prove his worth

Cape Town - Springbok wing Bryan Habana wants his form and performances to earn him national selection ahead of the Rugby World Cup in September.

Habana is already considered one of the greatest wings to ever play for South Africa.

Having played 106 Tests and two tour matches for the Springboks since 2004, Habana is the top try-scorer in Springbok history with 57 tries.

He is also one of the most decorated players in world rugby as he boasts a World Cup title (2007), a Rugby Championship title (2009), two Super Rugby titles (2007 and 2009 with the Bulls) and two Currie Cup titles (2009 with the Bulls and 2012 with Western Province).  He was also part of Toulon’s dream run last season as the club won the French Top 14 and European Cup titles to complete the domestic and continental double.

Individually, Habana shares the record for most tries in a World Cup (eight tries in 2007) along with All Black great Jonah Lomu. He was voted SA Player of the Year three times (2005, 2007 and 2012) and IRB Player of the Year in 2007.

And according to the 31-year-old, he’s not finished yet.

He has the desire to play in his third World Cup, after featuring in the 2007 and 2011 tournaments. However, he also wants to prove that he is worthy of selection for the global showpiece by delivering impressive performances for Toulon and Springboks during 2015.

“I’m feeling confident at this stage of the year. I managed to have several days off during the French Top 14 break, and spent some time in Cape Town with friends and family,” Habana told MyPlayers.co.za. “I just want to build on my form and continue delivering performances of a high standard.

“Toulon have a great squad with world-class players, so I need to work hard to earn my selection in the team. Toulon are in a good position in the French Top 14 and European Cup, and we are aiming to win more silverware this season.

“I also hope to make a good impact for the Springboks this year. There’s a lot of competition across all positions. So my focus is on making valuable contributions for the team heading into the World Cup.”

With a number of younger players coming through the national ranks, Habana also hopes to play a mentoring role in the Springbok squad.

“There are great young players in the national squad, which is great for the future of South African rugby. Guys like Cornal Hendricks, Jan Serfontein, Oupa Mohoje and Marcell Coetzee, among many others, are doing really well as they continue their personal growth,” said Habana.

“I hope to pass on my advice, insight and knowledge to them to add to their growth. It’s important for experienced players to give back to the team.”

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


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