Wille le Roux has had a great start to his Test career, often exceeding expectations. The dynamic fullback was recently named a nominee for the IRB World Rugby Player of the Year 2014. Learn more about him with this nice Total Rugby feature.
Hailing from the Western Cape originally, Le Roux was signed by the Cheetahs, not one of the traditional powerhouse unions of South African rugby. Ironically Bloemfontein has bred some of the best rugby players in the country, but most of them leave for the bigger teams.
Le Roux stuck around and has had to do a lot of very special things to get noticed. There were questions asked about his size and possible defensive frailties, but his dynamism with ball in hand soon paid dividends. Since making the Springbok step up, he hasn't looked back.
"I just want to play footy. For me it's just about going out there and just go play and entertain.. just try new stuff," the 25-year-old playmaker says.
His inclusion has given the Springboks a dimension they've lacked at times, and while he knows he's not the finished product, being given a licence to thrill is exactly what keeps him ticking.
"I know I'm going to make a lot of mistakes, but some of those you get right aswell, and then you're the hero," he adds in this refreshing chat.
He picked up a cheekbone injury in last Saturday's 31-28 win over England at Twickenham, but was earlier this week cleared for the upcoming Test against Italy in Padova.
Le Roux has some fierce competition for this year's World Rugby Player of the Year, with the likes of Julian Savea, Duane Vermeulen, Jonny Sexton and Brodie Retallick all vying for the award.
View the IRB World Rugby Player of the Year 2014 shortlist