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Pretoria - Springbok and Bulls scrumhalf Rudy Paige wants to build on to the impressive season he enjoyed in 2015.
Paige was a top performer during last year’s Super Rugby season. His outstanding form saw him preferred as the first-choice scrumhalf in the Bulls squad, which added value to the Pretoria team’s overall game play, especially on attack.
The 26-year-old also attracted the attention of the national selectors, which saw him earn his first Springbok call-up. He also went on to achieve one of his biggest goals, making the Springbok Rugby World Cup squad for the tournament in England.
“Making the World Cup squad was definitely one of my highlights for 2015. The biggest one was making my Test debut for South Africa against the USA,” Paige told MyPlayers.co.za. “It was such an amazing experience, on and off the field.
“I was very happy with my game last season, but I need to continue working hard. I want to come back even better... there’s always room to improve.
“I want to play my way back into the Bulls No 9 jersey and make sure I perform consistently well during Super Rugby. If I can achieve that, many more rewards will follow.”
The Bulls will welcome a number of young players in the senior squad this season. Paige believes the senior players have an important role during this new chapter.
“It’s exciting times at the Bulls as we have a new coach and many new faces in the squad. We are lucky at the Bulls to have so much great talent coming through the structures, but we need to help the young guys settle,” said Paige.
“Super Rugby is a big step-up from the Currie Cup, so they will need time to experience the pace of the game at a higher level. If we can give them guidance and advice, it will help them keep up with the pace much easier.”
Paige has enjoyed some down-time over the festive period with his family and friends in George and Oudtshoorn, which is his hometown.
“I really enjoyed some time away from the game. While South Africa is experiencing a heatwave, you can only imagine how hot it was in the Southern Cape! But it was great catching up with loved ones,” explained Paige.
“I’m back in Pretoria and ready to prepare for the 2016 season. The Bulls start their pre-season plans this week and I’m excited to get back onto the field.”
For more exclusive player content, check out MyPlayers.co.za
