Springboks centre Damian de Allende is set to play his 98th Test match against England on Saturday.
He is 12 years into his Springboks career and three Tests away from becoming a centurion, has won every trophy on offer to the Boks, yet Damian de Allende’s ambition burns brighter than ever.
The 34-year-old will win cap number 98 against England on Saturday at Ellis Park, and if the injury gods play ball, De Allende will join the Springbok 100 club by the end of July. Awaiting the man they call Doogz are Eben Etzebeth (141 caps), Victor Matfield (127), Bryan Habana (124), Tendai Mtawarira (117), John Smit (111), Jean de Villiers (109), Siya Kolisi (103), Percy Montgomery (102), and Willie le Roux (101).
“Each time I rejoin the Springbok environment, it is special — that never changes,” De Allende said. “To represent South Africa has always been my dream, and each chance I get to do it is exciting.
“I still have the drive to get better; I am still enjoying my rugby. If that was not the case, I would not feel like I am making a difference and would step away,” De Allende continued.
