Ethan Hooker says he would happily follow the example set by André Esterhuizen and become a hybrid player in the Springbok setup.
The 23-year-old, who was named Young Player of the Year at the SA Rugby Awards, is open to being used in a loose forward role if required.
“I play where the coach and the team need me. If they want me to play there, I will gladly do it,” Hooker told Netwerk24.
“I’ve always described myself as a bit of a forward playing in the backline. You could say I enjoy the dirty work. So yes, I would really like to do it, but it’s not for me to decide.”
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While not as big as Esterhuizen, Hooker already offers versatility in the backline and can cover both centre and wing.
Hooker made his Springbok debut in July last year, coming off the bench in the 45-0 victory over Italy in Gqeberha.
He later scored his first Test try in the 32-14 win over Italy in Turin.
Hooker’s impressive form for the Springboks and the Sharks saw him beat Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Canan Moodie, Haashim Pead and Zachary Porthen to the Young Player of the Year award.
And if the Springboks want him to follow Esterhuizen’s hybrid blueprint, Hooker says he would embrace the challenge.
Photo: Dan Mullan/Getty Images
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