Ismaiel is set to become one of the very few triple Springboks when he makes his debut for the national sevens team.

Ismaiel has played one test for the Springboks in 2018, while he has also represented the Junior Springboks in 2012. In LA he will also become an official Springbok Sevens player.

The former Bulls flyer said it has been a long journey to get to this point.

"The previous time, making my Bok debut was very special as it was what I always strived for and wanted to do my whole rugby career.

"This time, travelling to Los Angeles with the Blitzboks, means a lot, to be honest, because I never thought it would be possible after my shoulder injury.

"The fact that I ended up in Stellenbosch, training with the Sevens guys, was a miracle itself – I never thought my shoulder would heal so well that I could just be functional again and even more so, start playing rugby again," he said.

"The last couple of months have been so gratifying and to know that I am on my way to play for this team on the world stage is really a special feeling. The Blitzboks are standard bearers in the world of Sevens and to be part of them now is a massive privilege."

"We all know how hard these guys train, it is insane how fit they are.

"For me, coming from an injury layoff, it was even worse, but now, it is worth it. Those days of suffering are not over, as we still have intense sessions, but at least I can reap the rewards and play alongside them."

Ismaiel’s 15-man Springbok debut was also in the USA when the Boks faced Wales in Washington, DC.

The Blitzboks will kick off their campaign in the City of Angels on Saturday at 21:49 against Canada.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport