Bulls coach Johan Ackermann believes Sebastian de Klerk's work rate, physicality and versatility will stand out once Rassie Erasmus and his coaching staff begin working with the winger at the Nations Championship squad.
De Klerk is one of six uncapped players in Erasmus's 37-man squad for the second leg of the Nations Championship, which resumes in November. The 26-year-old attended an alignment camp earlier this year before a foot injury in May sidelined him for six months. He has been in strong form since returning at the start of this season, earning his call-up alongside Bulls teammate Luan Giliomee.
Ackermann, who has five other Bulls players in the Bok squad, says the selection represents a significant development opportunity for both men.
"With Luan, we can't take credit for that — you must look at what he has done at junior level and also at the Sharks as part of his development," Ackermann said. "I'm happy for Luan but very pleased for Sebastian. To come back and get this opportunity to experience the international level of teams and training — what they pick up there, they can bring that experience back into their own game and to the union."
Ackermann is confident De Klerk's qualities will make themselves apparent quickly. "There's a reason why Rassie has picked him, and they'll see that when they work with him. He's got an unrelenting work rate; he's physical, fit, and versatile."
The coach also highlighted De Klerk's positional flexibility, noting that while the winger has not featured extensively at outside centre, he is covering the 13 jersey this weekend and is capable of playing both wings as well as that position.