Damian de Allende, a respected member of the Springboks team, recently shared a remarkable revelation about a pivotal moment during the Rugby World Cup in 2019. In an interview with former Scotland international Jim Hamilton on RPTV show, Walk the Talk, de Allende recounted how a surprising source of motivation spurred the team to victory against England.
The intense matchup against England saw both teams struggle to score a try in the tentative first half, characterised by the strategic kicking of Handrè Pollard and Owen Farrell. Sensing the need for a morale boost, Pieter-Steph du Toit, known for his quiet demeanour, delivered a rousing speech that electrified the team. De Allende vividly recollected the atmosphere during half-time, describing it as sombre and lacking in energy. He expressed gratitude for du Toit’s intervention, acknowledging the impact of his impassioned plea to his teammates.
Reflecting on the significant impact of du Toit’s speech, de Allende acknowledged the pivotal role of his teammate and his unwavering dedication to the sport. The emotional charge from du Toit’s words propelled the Springboks to a resounding victory, a stark contrast to their earlier struggle in the game.
The Springboks’ dominance was ultimately sealed through Pollard’s impressive performance and late tries from Makazole Mapimpi and Cheslin Kolbe. Despite the team’s triumph, de Allende appreciated the quieter pace of life during his time in Japan, where he currently plays for League One runners-up, Saitama Wild Knights.
De Allende also touched on his evolving role within the Springboks team, emphasising the value of sacrifice in team sports. Acknowledging that certain players attract more attention and accolades, de Allende underscored his commitment to prioritising the team’s success over individual recognition. With a profound appreciation for his role as a team player, de Allende’s dedication to the Springboks’ cause has been unwavering throughout his extensive career.
In the midst of discussions about the Springboks’ future prospects, attention turned to the upcoming Ireland series. Former Springbok centre Jean de Villiers, in the latest episode of RPTV’s Boks Office, speculated on de Allende’s potential impact in the upcoming matches. With his versatility and proven track record, de Allende is well-prepared to contribute significantly in the upcoming series.
The insightful conversation between de Allende and Jim Hamilton offers a unique and candid glimpse into the world of Springbok rugby. From reliving the triumphant moments of RWC 2019 to discussing the team’s future endeavours, the interview provides an in-depth exploration of the team’s journey and aspirations. For fans of rugby and supporters of the Springboks, this engaging dialogue is a must-watch, offering compelling insights into the team’s triumphs and challenges.
For those eager to gain further insight into the world of Springbok rugby, the latest episode of Walk the Talk on RPTV unveils a captivating conversation that delves into the heart of the sport. With a wealth of wisdom and reflections on the team’s journey, this interview is an invaluable resource for rugby enthusiasts and fans of the Springboks.