Unlocking the enigma that is Frans Steyn shouldn’t be hard
Springbok coach Allister Coetzee has shown faith in a player that divides opinion. And he's right, there could be many benefits.
History shows how easy it actually is to get the best out of Frans Steyn. Photo: Luke Walker/Gallo Images.
There are South African rugby fans who weren’t all that chuffed by Springbok coach Allister Coetzee’s decision to recall Frans Steyn.
Misunderstood, selfish and unpredictable are just a few labels the 30-year-old utility back have been given over the years.
But here’s the irony of the unlocking Steyn: it’s actually not all that difficult.
Also read: The hits and misses of the Springbok squad
A look at his career reveals he blossoms when he’s given a clear role.
It explains why Steyn set the 2007 World Cup alight as 20-year-old when he was selected as an inside centre.
It explains why he played a big part in the Boks’ successful 2009 Tri-Nations campaign when national coach Peter de Villiers finally settled on him as a fullback.
And, of course, why he looked good in Heyneke Meyer’s first year as Bok coach when he returned to inside centre.
Jake White, who’s coached him at the Boks, Sharks and French club Montpellier, always got the best out of him because he realised fairly quickly the need to give Steyn a set role.
Coetzee, who was White’s assistant in the 2007 World Cup, is clearly aware of that.
“Coach Allister and I had a good chat and he told me I can still make a contribution towards the Springboks. I told him I would do my best for the team when I join them,” said Steyn.
“I am looking forward to getting to know the squad members a bit better during the next couple of days.”
Hopefully that “good chat” doesn’t involve him being used as a so-called floater in the squad – the guy who has to slot in where needed.
That’s where many have got it wrong.
They’ve picked Steyn at fullback, flyhalf and centre.
That versatility is a curse.
Worryingly, Coetzee has subtly suggested just that in justifying his selection.
“Frans comes with a wealth of experience and I am delighted that he has joined us. With so many new faces in the squad’s backline it really is a huge bonus to have a player of the calibre of Frans joining us,” he said.
Steyn shouldn’t be considered a versatile veteran in the series against the French.
If Coetzee believes he’s the best fullback or inside centre, he should be in the starting line-up.
Steyn’s an experienced, creative and a big physical presence at 1.91m and 100kg.
He kicks well out of hand and, importantly, he’s a strong defender.
Given Coetzee’s need for short-term results in this series, he could do worse than bank on Steyn.
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