Bulls utility forward Jan-Hendrik Wessels is set to realise his childhood dream when he makes his debut for the Springboks in their one-off Test against Portugal at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein on Saturday.
The 23-year-old Wessels was a schoolboy prodigy, playing at loose forward, lock and in the front row for school rugby powerhouse Grey College, but has turned his focus to hooker and prop since turning professional.
It is now set to be an extremely emotional day as he makes his first Bok start at loosehead prop in his hometown in front of his family and friends this weekend.
Ive aspired to be a Springbok since I was a young boy, so this is a massive opportunity and a dream come true. Its special to make ones Springbok debut no matter where you play, but it doesnt get any better than being able to do so in Bloemfontein in front of my family, said Wessels.
When I was growing up, we were all glued to the television when the Boks played, and the team has always inspired me.
