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Stander: I've got a bit of a lashing from people outside

Ireland and Munster backrow CJ Stander.

Ireland’s CJ Stander says he is fully aware of the criticism that has surrounded his performances in recent weeks. 

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The back row came under fire for some below-par displays, with the Munster player failing to produce his usual number of carries across Ireland’s World Cup warm-up matches.

Saturday’s 19-10 win against Wales in Dublin ensured Ireland head to Japan on a high, with Joe Schmidt’s side looking more like the Ireland of 2018, where they won a Grand Slam, claimed a series win in Australia and beat New Zealand in Dublin for the first time.

It was also something of a return to form for Stander, playing at No 6, which included a massive carry over the top of Rhys Patchell in the build-up to Rob Kearney’s opening try.

“I haven’t had a good few carries in the last few weeks. I have got a bit of a lashing from people outside,” said Stander.

“But look, when the team works hard, we get momentum. It’s difficult for the defence to get around the corner and that’s just what I want to do for the team – get them on the front foot and enjoy those carries.

“Look, warm-up games are funny ones because people have to get tested. You have to test the players around each other and the combinations.

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“It was a good performance, I think we can still do a lot better. There are things we can improve and build on.”

Stander, who made his Ireland debut in 2016, says at this stage in his career he is well able to deal with criticism.

“I have had a good bit of it over the last few years. It’s tough sometimes when the conversations get moved onto the family.

“But stuff like that doesn’t really get into me. I just want to play the game and make sure that I put my hand up for the players around me and be sure I’m good in that jersey, so I get selected.

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“It is a strong point in my game. It’s something that I had to work on and keep on working because I think you settle, it’s just going to stagnate and get you in trouble.”

Stander also addressed the backlash surrounding Jean Kleyn’s inclusion in Ireland 31-man squad.

Kleyn made the cut despite only becoming eligible to play for Ireland last month. His inclusion has not sat well with some Irish supporters and a number of former internationals, with fellow second row Devin Toner a shock omission from the final squad.

Stander is one of a number of ‘project players’ in the Ireland squad, and says that the best way for Kleyn to silence his critics is simply to perform on the pitch.

“He is someone who puts his head down and works massively hard. He is very aggressive in the game, very physical.

“He works hard to make sure he earns his spot. He is a guy who switches off completely from that (outside criticism) and makes sure that he brings his best on the weekend.

“I think he played unbelievably well. I think the team played well around him. Stuff like that doesn’t really get into the circle.

“I think he works hard. It’s the same thing with Bundee (Aki). Just make sure you keep your head down, work hard, perform for the jersey and show it means something to you. It means a lot to Bundee and Jean to be in that green jersey.”

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Bull Shark 1 hour ago
Salmaan Moerat: 'I’ve not really processed the magnitude of leading the Springboks'

I like the idea of Elrigh Louw as a long-term option for captaincy. Honestly, it’s hard to say who else could take on that role after Siya Kolisi, as 2027 is still a long way off. In my opinion, Siya will likely go to the Rugby World Cup in 2027 unless injury or a significant dip in form prevents him.


Between now and 2027, I think the captaincy will be shared among several players as Siya’s playing time is carefully managed—a strategy the Springboks have been implementing for some time. Younger players like Salmaan Moerat might get opportunities to captain in tier-two matches, as we’ve already seen. Other emerging talents like Jordan Hendrikse and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu could also be considered, though the Boks have traditionally favored forwards for captaincy roles. Damian Willemse is another possibility, but he first needs to play his way back into the team.


My personal feeling is that there should be an effort to appoint a black captain to replace Siya. His captaincy has been pivotal in broadening rugby's appeal across racial groups in South Africa over the past 7 years. More so than any other period in the last 30 years.


Form permitting, Moerat is a strong contender, given his leadership qualities and pedigree. However, some might view such an appointment as political, potentially overlooking Moerat's real potential and the broader significance of such a decision.


Other players with leadership potential have been mentioned in the past, such as Phepsi Buthelezi. However, it remains to be seen whether the former DHS star will secure a permanent spot in the Springbok lineup. The first Zulu captain of the Springboks? Would be nice, but unlikely given the competition for the 8 jersey.


One positive aspect of the uncertainty around Siya’s long-term successor is the way the Springboks have emphasized shared leadership among senior players. This approach has lessened the pressure on a single captain and allowed the team to thrive collectively.


When Siya was first appointed, there was skepticism about his leadership credentials. And whether he was the best 6 in the country. The shared leadership strategy gave him the support and platform to grow into the exceptional captain he is today. And he's proven critics wrong about his abilities as a player.


I find it interesting that he's playing at 8 for the Sharks. Rassie has made a habit of taking 36ers and above to the World Cup, players who bring options to the table like Frans Steyn, Schalk Brits, Duane Vermeulen and more recently Deon Fourie.


All of SA wants to see Siya win a 3rd World Cup. That's for sure.


And if he goes, he'll lead.

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