For modern rugby players, trying to cope with the amount of rugby they are playing is an ongoing test of adaptability.
But for Springboks (https://iol.co.za/tags/springboks/) scrumhalf Morné van den Berg (https://iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/2026-09-16-morn-van-den-berg-makes-strong-case-for-more-springbok-starts-at-no-9/), stepping back into the Springboks setup ahead of this Saturday’s Test against Italy in Turin (https://iol.co.za/sport/rugby/springboks/2026-11-02-rassie-erasmus-sends-clear-nations-championship-message-with-settled-springbok-team-for-italy/) has been a smooth process, likely because he feels far more comfortable in the Bok jersey following his fantastic performances towards the end of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against the All Blacks.
‘Krappie’ started the fourth Test in Baltimore and produced a polished performance, even scoring a try with a sharp dummy from close range.
However, it has also been a painful time for Van den Berg and his Lions teammates following the shock passing of lock Hyron Andrews. Having essentially spent the last two weeks on tour, they have been unable to return to their loved ones to grieve together following the tragedy.
Yet, despite the short turnaround from the Lions’ match last weekend to preparing for Italy this week, Van den Berg remains confident that he and the squad can adapt to the quick shift.
“I won’t say it’s easy, but everyone is in a similar position,” said Van den Berg. “The systems at the club and the systems here are close enough that we’re able to dig into how we want to play and get alignment. So it’s not easy, but it’s very doable.”
Rather than battling fatigue amid a punishing domestic and global calendar, Van den Berg embraces the heavy workload.
“I’m obviously enjoying it a lot. I’m feeling strong, my body is healing well, and I’m in a good position. I feel great,” he said. “If you get the opportunity to represent the Springboks at this level, you want to take it, so to be able to play more is such a blessing. And when you play for your club, it’s also an opportunity to put your hand up and represent them. So playing more is incredible.”
Despite his growing stature and recent performances against New Zealand, Van den Berg remains firmly focused on the immediate task at hand, refusing to dwell on past heroics as the Boks prepare to face the Azzurri.
“There’s a new picture, a new team, a new week. There’s big work this weekend; we must make sure we play well.”
That inner drive is further fuelled by fierce competition. With South Africa blessed with an abundance of exceptional halfbacks, Van den Berg acknowledges that the standard at scrumhalf is at an all-time high, driving him to continually elevate his game.
“The nines in South Africa are playing unbelievable rugby,” he said. “It can only make us better and I’m grateful for it.”
