Sebastian de Klerk has returned to action for the Bulls after a six-month layoff following surgery on his left foot, an injury sustained against the Stormers in March that derailed what had been a promising run of form at a crucial time.
The 26-year-old winger had been invited to a Springbok alignment camp in the months before the injury, with the Bok coaching staff speaking positively about him. The timing made the setback especially difficult to absorb.
"It was disappointing for a lot of reasons," De Klerk said. "I've struggled a lot with injuries in my career. I did both my knees when I was here at the Bulls; I did my left foot as well. I was just frustrated with the fact that I got injured again, but I believe everything happens for a reason."
De Klerk has featured in every Bulls match this season since recovering full fitness before pre-season, including their 56-20 Champions Cup win over Stade Français last weekend. His comeback began nervously in a warm-up match against the Stormers in Paarl, but his confidence has grown steadily.
"That first game against the Stormers, I questioned if my foot was going to be alright. Since then, I've been enjoying it a lot."
With Johan Ackermann rotating his squad across both the URC and Champions Cup, De Klerk has shifted his mindset away from competing for a starting berth and towards contributing to the squad's broader needs — a maturity he credits in part to the influence of senior players around him.
"When I got here, someone like Willie [le Roux], Canan [Moodie] and Kurt-Lee Arendse helped me a lot. I really try and invest time into the guys that are coming into the squad. I don't see them as competition necessarily; I try not to make it about myself."
The Springbok ambition remains, though De Klerk is clear-eyed about how selection works. "I have very big dreams to play for the Boks, but that's not completely in my control. I can only do my best for the Bulls, and I believe if they feel I'm good enough, they will pick me."
De Klerk also paid tribute to Lions lock Hyron Andrews, who passed away on Friday in France.