Enjoy exclusive access to Goldrush ambassador Jesse Kriel!
In the second of a series of Q and A’s, we chat to Springbok Centre and Goldrush ambassador (and occasional Springbok captain) Jesse Kriel about Springbok rugby, and how he stays connected to the national team and maintains his standards.
Check out the interview below:
Being away in Japan, how do you stay connected to the South Africa national rugby union team environment and what it means to represent the green and gold?
Being in Japan doesn’t change what the Springbok badge means to me. That connection is something you carry every day, no matter where you are in the world. We’ve built a really strong culture and brotherhood in the group, and that stays with you. I stay in regular contact with the coaches and players, keep aligned with the standards and expectations, and make sure I’m consistently performing here so I’m ready when that opportunity comes again. Representing South Africa is the ultimate honour, and that responsibility never fades.
The Springboks have built a reputation for resilience and physicality — how do you personally maintain that standard while playing abroad?
That standard is non-negotiable. It comes down to daily habits — how you train, how you recover, and the intent you bring to every session and game. Playing in Japan is different stylistically, but I make sure I keep that physical edge in my game through conditioning, contact work, and mindset. It’s about holding yourself accountable to the level that’s expected in that environment, even when you’re not physically in it every week.
Japanese rugby is known for its speed and skill — has that influenced your game in any way that fans might notice when you’re back in Springbok colours?
Definitely. The game here is very quick, with a big emphasis on skill execution and decision-making under pressure. It’s helped sharpen my awareness, my handling, and my ability to adapt in open play. I think when I come back into the Springbok environment, that balance between physicality and speed adds another dimension to my game.
For fans back home following your journey, what can they expect from you in the upcoming international season?
They can expect consistency, work rate, and a player who’s fully committed to the jersey. I’m always looking to grow and improve, and I’ll be doing everything I can to contribute to the team’s success. It’s about bringing energy, experience, and doing my role to the best of my ability every time I get the opportunity.