Deon Fourie is unfazed by the prospect of filling Malcolm Marx’s enormous shoes as a Bomb Squad member this weekend.
The 35-year-old Stormers veteran, whom Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber identified as a potential Schalk Brits-like figure for next year’s World Cup, has been re-assigned to hooker for the match against the Wallabies in Sydney, a move that has divided opinion.
Throw-ins are only one aspect of playing hooker; there are many more responsibilities involved “Fourie stated.
“I’ve been [training at hooker] with the Stormers and the Boks for a long time. I used to play hooker in France a few years ago.
“I believe I’ve played hooker more than flank in my 16 years of professional football. As I previously stated, playing hooker entails more than just throw-ins. It’s been going well.
“You have to keep your game going and do what you’re doing.”
Fourie will almost certainly scrum alongside the shrewd and experienced Trevor Nyakane, and his fellow Bomb Squad member left little doubt about the late bloomer’s ability to make a smooth transition.
We’ve only worked with him as a hooker on the practise field “According to the 33-year-old tighthead.
“Deon is an accomplished player. I remember watching him at school because he was a hooker who always played there. When he arrived in Western Province, I was surprised to see him starting to play flanker.
“During the week, when I worked with him, he was on the same page. He understands exactly what we’re trying to accomplish as a pack, and he fits in perfectly. I know he’ll face the challenge head on, and we’ll be there, side by side, doing everything we can to win as a Springbok pack.”
In addition to his set-piece ability, Fourie will be expected to lead the charge at the breakdowns in the later stages of the game, though the burden will be significantly lighter.
“Having two guys who can disrupt the Aussies at the breakdown will definitely help,” Fourie said.
“It’s not just a role for Malcolm and me. On the ground, Duane Vermeulen and Steven Kitshoff are also excellent. It’s always interesting to see how other guys play that role.
“At this level, however, there are other nuances to consider than simply sticking your head into the breakdown.”
The game begins at 11:35 a.m. (SA time on Saturday).
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