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Bok structures 'a challenge'

Cape Sown - Springbok utility back Frans Steyn says he has found it tough to adapt to the Bok structures since returning from France.

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Steyn has been plying his trade with racing Metro in France in recent years and admitted to Die Burger newspaper that the toughest thing since returning to the Boks was to get used to the way the South Africans play the game.

"The biggest challenge was to fit into the structures again. At Racing we run with everything and there's not really a game plan," said Steyn.

The 24-year-old with 43 Test caps also hinted that he might consider a return to South Africa once his contract at Racing expires next June. He is engaged and says he will always stay a son of Bethlehem in the Eastern Free State, even though he thoroughly enjoys his stay in Paris.

"France has made me grow up. The distance was probably good for me, but I like being back with the Boks," said Steyn.

He also admitted that centre is now his preferred position and he's played most of his rugby there for Racing. However, it is doubtful that he will get a chance in the midfield for the Boks during the Rugby World Cup, with Jean de Villeirs and Jaque Fourie coach Peter de Villiers' preferred centre pairing.

His long-range drop kick prowess will in any case be better utilised at fullback. Steyn is renowned for landing long range drop efforts, but hasn't kicked one in a while, mainly due to playing in the midfield in France, but he admitted that he has been practicing the skill ahead of the World Cup tournament.

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