The former Cheetahs flyhalf comes into the squad due to numerous injuries in the setup he just wants to play his part.

The product of Hentie Cilliers High School in Virginia, Afrika said when received the call from coach Neil Powell he couldn’t let the opportunity pass.

“I was with my fiancé, Adrielle Armoed, in Port Elizabeth, busy with our wedding arrangements and we were on our way to the wedding venue when coach Neil phoned,” said Afrika.

“I had no idea that he was going to ask me to join, although I have sent him messages in the past, perhaps more jokingly than anything else, like before the Commonwealth Games, telling him I am available. I asked if I can phone him back, as I just needed to chat to Adrielle, but I knew the answer. My country called and I had to answer.”

Afrika added that he is ready to slot in with the squad and for him it won’t been too difficult to fit right back in.

“I am very clear on what coach Neil and coach Renfred want out of the game. I have played for them for a long time. It did take a little longer to process the whole plan, as I was away from the team for a while, but it is all coming back to me.

“It was a bit emotional, taking all in and knowing that I am back where I always felt at home, but that aside, we have a job to do this weekend.

“I was always one to ask a lot of questions at training and that has not changed, so I got all my answers early. It was always great to see how the rest of the squad embraced me and welcomed me back into the team. That was a great feeling.”

The World Cup kicks off on Friday morning and the Blitzboks will tackle the winner between Germany and Chile on Friday night.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport