Cobus Wise, a player for the Springboks who is currently on break during the World Cup match against Wales, shared thoughts on his career. He noted that the opportunity to share the Springboks' form with his brother Jasper is an incredible privilege.
Wise is preparing to take the field again in the upcoming match against Argentina in Buenos Aires on Saturday. For the Wise family, seeing both brothers represent South Africa internationally is the highest reward for years of dedication.
His older brother Jasper debuted for the Springboks in 2021 against Georgia at the age of 25 and subsequently won the Rugby World Cup with the Boks in France two years later. Cobus Wise himself debuted last year against Italy at the age of 28 when his brother received a red card. Since then, they have played together in one match, with Cobus participating in two out of three World Cup matches against Scotland and Wales, playing at number 4 lock in the absence of legend Eben Etzebeth.
Before the match in Buenos Aires, Wise told reporters: 'Jasper and I, and our whole family, are extremely proud and grateful for this opportunity.' He added that while it is a special moment once, if they get another chance and remain healthy, a few more appearances will be invaluable. 'I am proud to share the Springbok form with my brother. I am still a little speechless at how proud and grateful we are.'
This unwavering drive was formed long before professional rugby, thanks to the harsh demands of life on a farm in Apington. The climate of Apington can be unforgiving in the summer when temperatures approach 40 degrees Celsius, while winters are very cold. Wise explained: 'Growing up on a farm, you work until the job is done. So there is no time for giving up.' He emphasized that the sense of responsibility shaped him more as a person than as a player, and believes that other athletes gain similar values through their upbringing, as a strong work ethic is necessary for success in rugby.
Despite his international career being young and having only four matches with the national team, Wise feels completely integrated into the Springboks squad this season. He thanks the returning key players of the second row, Eben Etzebeth and Lud Kruger, for easing his adaptation. Wise admitted that integrating into a team as a new player can be intimidating, but having world-class players nearby allows him to learn before matches. He noted: 'I wouldn't say I am comfortable, but I respect my role in the team and am happy to fulfill it.'
Wise also expressed respect for Etzebeth, who is returning to the starting lineup for his 142nd match. He stated: 'I think every time Eben puts on the rugby jersey, he is ready to work and works incredibly hard. You can understand why he has been here 141 times before. He gives the guys around him so much confidence, and if we can follow his example, I think the team will be ready.'
As a substitute player alongside Benjaison Dixon as versatile cover for lock and loose front, Wise does not attach importance to positional labels as long as he contributes to the green and gold cause. He clarified: 'Right now I am a lock who can play loose front. I played some loose front before I went abroad, and England was probably where I settled into the second row. But if you are given a chance to play for the Springboks, you will play any position they want you to.'
