Pretoria - Springbok and Bulls flank Arno Botha wants to make a big impact when he makes his comeback after a long injury lay-off this season.
Botha enjoyed an outstanding 2013 season as he showed great form during Super Rugby for the Bulls, which earned him a Springbok call-up in June later that year. He played against Italy and Scotland, before picking up a serious knee injury during the Test against the latter.
He managed to recover in time for the 2014 season, but unfortunately, another knee injury early in the season kept him out for the rest of the year.
The 23-year-old is now determined to make a successful return to the field and make his mark.
"It's been very frustrating to be stuck on the sidelines, especially when you just want to play the game. But luckily I have a great support system around me. My friends and family played a big role as they supported me whenever things got tough," Botha told MyPlayers.co.za.
"My rehab has gone really well, and I'm looking forward to playing Super Rugby again this season. It was good to get back on to the field during the friendly against the Cheetahs last weekend, although I did leave the field with a bit of a tight hamstring. However, I will be 100% by the start of Super Rugby."
Botha added that he will be focused on evolving his game.
"Rugby is continuously evolving. Every year, there are areas in the game and approaches that give players and teams the upper hand. I've been out of the game for a while, so I need to ensure I can keep up with the times. I want to make a big difference on the field this season."
Botha's goals for the season is to cement his place in the Bulls line-up, and hopes to earn a return to the Springbok squad.
"This will be a big season, especially as it's a World Cup year," said Botha. "I want to perform well for the Bulls and earn my spot in the team. If I can make perform well on a consistent basis, I hope to get a spot in the Springbok squad, which is every player's dream.
"The 2013 season was an amazing one for me, but I want to achieve much more in future. I know I need to work hard to achieve my goals."
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