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Cape Town - Springbok fullback Willie le Roux says playing his rugby in the northern hemisphere has made him a better player.
Le Roux had one of his best games in a Springbok jersey last Saturday when he was at the heart of a comeback that saw South Africa come back from 24-3 down to win the first Test against England 42-39.
With 42 Test caps to his name now, Le Roux has been playing his rugby at Wasps in the Aviva Premiership since making the move from the Sharks at the end of 2016.
It was a move that the 28-year-old believes has been beneficial to his overall game.
"It made me a better player all over ... it's not just about attacking. It's about kicking, the high ball, catching, your defence. I think it improved me a lot," Le Roux said of his move up north.
"It's not as fast as Super Rugby.
"I think the kicking game, the defence ... you must be ready for everything.
"I think in Super Rugby sometimes the guys just throw it around it looks like nice rugby, but over that side it is more controlled: set piece, kicking, aerial battle, your defence is more organised, every team has a good structure."
Le Roux is expected to be named at fullback once again for this weekend's second Test in Bloemfontein.
Kick-off is at 17:05.
